Elderly woman dies in early morning house fire at St James

Police and fire officials are investigating a fire of unknown origin, that claimed the life of an elderly woman, at The Gardens, St James this morning.

According to Acting Station Sergeant Michael Blackman, lawmen were patrolling the area around 4: 03 a.m. when they noticed smoke and fire coming from a house.  The fire service was called in and police officers made attempts to enter the dwelling but were unable to do so due to the heat. Some residents also attempted to suppress the fire but were unsuccessful.

Two houses were destroyed.

Eighteen fire officers and four fire tenders responded to the blaze.

More details as they come to hand. (FW)