Police have launched an investigation after a 42-year-old woman died in a devastating house fire in Oldham.
The blaze broke out at a terraced house on Saint Thomas Street North at around 4.10pm on Saturday (June 24). Fire crews, police officers and paramedics rushed to the scene as the fire took hold of the home.
The woman was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. A 15-year-old girl was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.
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In an update issued this morning, Greater Manchester Police said she remains there fighting for her life. The force also confirmed that a probe into the fire has been launched.
Detectives want to speak to anyone with information, particularly anyone who has CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from around the time of the incident. Police patrols have also been stepped up in the area.
GMP said police and partner agencies are working to get the residents who had to leave their homes back 'as safely and soon as possible'. Some are currently staying in accommodation provided by Oldham Council.
Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Naismith, of GMP’s Major Incident Team said: "An investigation has been launched to try and establish the circumstances that very tragically led to this woman’s death and to the serious injury of a teenage girl. Everyone at GMP sends their condolences to the loved ones of the woman who sadly died.
"The family of the victim are now being supported by specialist officers and have been kept updated throughout. They are also assisting us with our enquiries.
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"You may notice an increase of police visibility in the area in the coming days, if you have any concerns, please speak to one of our uniformed officers who will be patrolling the nearby areas. We are still working with partner agencies to get those residents who have been displaced back into their homes as safely and soon as possible.
"A number of those residents have been provided with alternative accommodation by Oldham Council."
Devastating pictures from the scene over the weekend showed the extent of the damage caused by the fatal fire, with a number of attics exposed and houses in the vicinity left blackened. On Saturday, thick black smoke filled the streets as 'panicked' residents rushed to help.
The fatal blaze rocked the local Werneth community, which is predominantly Muslim, with crowds coming together, turning out to the local mosques to mourn their loss and pay their respects. Beside the cordon, local Labour councillor Nyla Ibrahim told the Manchester Evening News: “Our thanks goes out to the emergency services, they’ve been on the scene overnight.
"Our condolences go out to the family at this difficult time. It has affected the community as a whole. We come together at times like this.
"It has affected us all. She was a much loved member of the community, she was a bubbly character and always smiling."
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting 2564 of 24/06/2023 or gmp.police.uk. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
