Piles of soot have been found in the stairwell of a tower block evacuated when a fire tore through the building, which killed a man.
Terrified residents fled their homes at around 2.15am on Sunday as the blaze broke out on the top floor of Twinnel House in Bristol.
Fire alarms did not sound in the building, forcing police to bang on people’s doors to wake them to get out.
Ninety people were evacuated, with one man dying in the tragedy as he jumped from the top floor to escape the danger, according to police.
A further eight were taken to hospital.
The first pictures taken at the scene since the tragedy show piles of soot in the stairwells of the 16 floor building, home to 24 flats.
A full investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.
Avon and Somerset Police Superintendent Tony Blatchford said: “This is a tragic incident in which a man has lost his life.
“While formal identification has not yet been carried out, we believe we know who the man is and have informed his next of kin. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
“Enquiries into what happened have already begun and we will work closely with the fire service to fully understand what started the fire and how the man sadly died.
“I’d like to thank those who have been evacuated from their homes for their co-operation and understanding and promise them all agencies are working hard to enable them to return home as quickly as possible.”
Terry Wootten, who lived at Twinnell House for 32 years, said he was asleep at the time of the fire and was woken by shouts and screams so loud he thought there was a fight on the street below.
He added: “I decided to get out of my flat as I guessed there was something wrong. I didn’t know there was a fire when I first got out.
“There were lots of people outside already. I have no medication, no walking stick - nothing.
"I’ve nowhere to go. I have not been able to sleep all night. I am really angry.”
Pictures the next day showed black soot around the window of one of the homes on the top floor.
Dave Hodges, Avon Fire and Rescue Service Duty Group Commander, added: “On arrival crews were faced with a serious fire on the 16th floor and deployed crews wearing breathing apparatus to tackle the fire and assist residents.
“The upper floors have been damaged by smoke and fire, and water damage has affected many flats on lower floors.
“The fire has now been contained and fire crews remain in attendance making the scene safe.
"We are working with our partner agencies to support the local community during this difficult time.
“Our sincere condolences go to the friends and family of the deceased.”
