Investigations are continuing into a devastating house fire which killed an Oldham mum. An inquest has today (July 5) been opened into the death of Sadia Shafiq.
The 42-year-old died following a fire at her home on St Thomas Street North on June 24. At Rochdale Coroners Court, police coroners officer Emma Campbell told the court Ms Shafiq was born in Pakistan and was divorced, with her son named as next of kin.
Ms Campbell confirmed that Ms Shafiq was a resident at the property, where firefighters and police had been called out, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. Ms Shafiq was formally identified using her dental records, medical notes and X-rays, Ms Campbell told the court.
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A 'multi-organisation investigation' into the fire is taking place following Ms Shafiq's death, with Detective Inspector Andrew Naismith named as the senior investigating officer during the inquest opening. Ms Shafiq's inquest was adjourned to October 31.
Andrew Cox, assistant coroner for Manchester North, said the inquest would need further information from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Ms Shafq's GP. A review is set to take place on September 18.
Following the fire, Greater Manchester Police confirmed Ms Shafiq's 15-year-old daughter had also been rushed to hospital from the scene. Some neighbours had to be evacuated from their homes following the blaze.
In a tribute, Ms Shafiq's family said: "We as a family have been devastated by the loss of Sadia and our hearts are broken. She was a beloved mother and sister and a friend to many.
"She was caring and the light of all our lives and will be deeply missed by all. We will never come to terms with our loss but we thank the local community who have come together and supported us during this difficult time.”
