House fire leaves one dead

A PERSON has died in a major blaze at a Plymouth house, police have confirmed.

The fierce fire which tore through a home in North

Prospect also left two other people suffering from smoke inhalation.

Some residents reported hearing an explosion in Briardale Road just after midday yesterday before a fire which sent thick black smoke into the air.

Three fire engines, police and paramedics also attended the incident. The road was closed to allow emergency crews to work.

Inspector Gareth Hammett said from the scene that the fire had been “significant”.

He added: “Three people have been treated at the scene. One person unfortunately is deceased.

“Another person was extracted from the property and has been suffering from smoke inhalation.

“A third person who was not directly involved has also been treated for mild smoke inhalation.”

Insp Hammett added that nearby properties were evacuated but residents were soon able to return.

He added: “Ultimately the fire was contained in the one property.”

Police have not provided any details of the deceased person or any cause. A joint fire and police investigation was underway yesterday.