Murder investigation opened after woman dies following house fire

A man and a teenager have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman died at the scene of a house fire.

Police were called at around 4.00am on Monday, January 24 to reports of a fire at a residence on Railton Road in Brixton.

The London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service were also called to the fire.

A 46-year-old woman was found unresponsive inside the property and was later pronounced dead at the scene.

The death is being treated as suspicious and a murder investigation has been opened.

A 47-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of murder on the evening of Wednesday, January 26. They remain in custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Wood, leading the investigation, said: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts are with the woman’s family and friends as they come to terms with their loss.

“A dedicated team of investigators are working to establish the circumstances leading up to the fire and I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area in the early hours of Monday and may have seen or heard anything suspicious.

“I recognise the impact this will have on the community and I would like to reassure the public that our enquiries so far have found nothing to suggest there is any wider risk.”

Anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to call the major incident room on 020 8649 0424.

Alternatively, call 101 quoting CAD 724/24Jan or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.