TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a fatal fire.

Patryk Mortimer, 39, died in a fire in Easington Lane, in Tyne and Wear, which happened in the early hours of Saturday, November 3.

A 21-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are currently in police custody.

Two men who were arrested on November 4 as part of initial enquiries remain under investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector John Bent, of Northumbria Police, said: “A thorough investigation is ongoing as we look to determine the circumstances that led to Patryk’s tragic death.

“In the last 24 hours, we have arrested a 21-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman on suspicion of murder and they are currently in police custody. A number of other individuals are also assisting police.

 

Patryk Mortimer, 39, died in the fire in Easington Lane

“More than 400 hours of CCTV footage has been seized as part of this enquiry and a team of experienced detectives are continuing to map out a chronology of events that led to the incident."

The fire started at Manor House, a former care home, in High Street, in the early hours of the morning.

Mr Mortimer died after he was found unconscious inside the building. He was pronounced dead a short time later.

Detectives leading the investigation are treating the incident as a suspected homicide, and the building remains cordoned off as enquiries continue.

  The Northern Echo:

The fire damaged former care home The Manor House, in Easington Lane

Det Ch Insp Bent added: "There will continue to be an increased police presence in the local area as officers carry out enquiries and offer reassurance to the public

“I would like to thank residents for their ongoing patience and cooperation as this investigation continues. Anyone with any concerns is asked to speak to a nearby officer.”

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