West Midlands Police have launched a murder investigation following a devastating house fire in Wolverhampton, which is being treated as a deliberate act of arson.
The blaze erupted at a property on Petworth Road in the Hickman Avenue area just after 3 am on Wednesday, 19th June. Despite the efforts of emergency services, a woman was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Detectives have confirmed their belief that the fire was started intentionally. A major investigation is now underway to find the person responsible for what they are calling a "horrific incident".
A Community in Shock
Forensic teams remain at the cordoned-off property as they meticulously search for evidence. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.
Detective Inspector Michelle Thurgood stated: "We believe the fire was started deliberately and we are now treating this as a murder investigation. A woman has sadly lost her life and we are determined to find out who is responsible."
Local residents have been left shaken by the event, with many expressing their shock and sadness at the tragedy that has unfolded on their doorstep.
Appeal for Information
Authorities are conducting extensive enquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage from the area. They are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Petworth Road and Hickman Avenue in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Police have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact them as a matter of urgency, quoting log 345 of 19 June.
This incident has sent ripples of fear through the community as the hunt for a potential killer arsonist continues.
