An investigation has been launched after a woman died following a house fire in County Durham.
Crews from County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service were called to a house fire on Shafto Way in Newton Aycliffe at approximately 3am on Thursday. Fire engines from Newton Aycliffe and Darlington attended the scene.
Firefighters carried the elderly woman from the house and started CPR but, sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
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The fire service confirmed that no-one else was injured or had to be rescued from the scene on Shafto Way.
An investigation has since been launched by the fire service in conjunction with Durham Constabulary as they look to establish the cause of the blaze.
Later in the day, fire crews were photographed at the scene with a police cordon around the front of the house. Investigators wearing forensic body suits were also seen heading into the semi-detached home.
A representative from County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service offered their condolences to the woman's loved ones at this sad time.
Their crews have remained in the area today as they look to ensure neighbouring houses have smoke alarms fitted.
Group manager Michael Pearson said: "Our thoughts and condolences are with the woman's family and friends at this time. Our fire investigation team is now working closely with our police colleagues to investigate the cause of the fire.
"Fire crews are in the area today speaking with neighbours and fitting smoke alarms where required."
A spokesman for Durham Constabulary added: "Shortly after 3am today we were alerted by our emergency services colleagues to a fire at a property in Shafto Way, Newton Aycliffe.
"Sadly, an elderly woman was pronounced dead at the scene. A joint investigation by police and fire service investigators is underway to determine the cause."
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