POLICE investigating a fatal fire at the weekend have arrested two men.

At around 2.40am on Saturday, police received a report of a fire at a residential property– the former Manor House Care Home on High Street, Easington Lane, near Houghton-le-Spring.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue attended the scene and managed to get a number of residents to safety.

One man, aged 39, was found unconscious inside the building but died a short time later.

Officers are now in the process of contacting next of kin.

 

Two men, aged 23 and 35, have been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation and remain in police custody at this time.

Officers have also appealed to the public to come forward with any information that could assist with a joint police and fire investigation.

Detective Inspector Dave English said: “This incident has sadly resulted in the death of a 39-year-old man. We have two suspects currently in custody but we still need help from the public so we can establish exactly what has happened.

"Anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area needs to get in touch with us as they could assist the investigation. We would urge you to come forward.”

  • Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria police on 101 quoting log 146 031118 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.