Northumbria Police have confirmed that two people died in a house fire in North Shields in the early hours of Wednesday, 1 July. Emergency services were called to Cragside Avenue at approximately 3:30 a.m. after reports of a blaze.
Victims and Response
A man in his 40s and a woman in her 70s were discovered inside the property and pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts from responders. A man in his 70s was also found inside and taken to hospital for treatment of his injuries. Two neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution, and a cordon remains in place.
The Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service received the emergency call at 3:27 a.m. and dispatched five appliances from Tynemouth, Byker, South Shields, and Gosforth Community Fire Stations. Firefighters rescued persons from the property and extinguished the blaze.
Statements from Authorities
Detective Inspector Barry McAtominey, Senior Investigating Officer, said: "This is an absolutely devastating incident in which two people have tragically lost their lives. All of our thoughts and condolences are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."
He added: "Enquiries remain at a very early stage, and with the support of our partners from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service we are determined to establish exactly what happened. We are asking anyone with information – no matter how small or insignificant it may seem – to come forward and share what they know."
A Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We can confirm that earlier today, Wednesday, 1st July, five appliances attended an incident in North Tyneside. The incident involved a fire in a house. Firefighters rescued persons from the property and extinguished the blaze."
An NEAS spokesperson added: "We were called to a fire at a private address in North Shields at 3:32am on Wednesday 01 July. We dispatched three ambulance crews, one rapid response paramedic, one clinical team leader, one duty officer, three HART resources (Hazardous Area Response Team) and were supported by our colleagues at Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS). One patient was taken to hospital for further treatment by road."
Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. They can be contacted via social media direct message, live chat, or report forms on the Northumbria Police website. Alternatively, call 101 quoting reference NP-20260701-0129.
