Two people have died after a "devastating" fire tore through a North East house in the early hours.
The blaze broke out at a property on Cragside Avenue in North Shields, North Tyneside, in the on Wednesday (July 1).
Shortly after 3.30am, police were alerted by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
A man in his 40s and a woman in her 70s were found inside the property and were pronounced dead at the scene - a man in his 70s who was also inside the property was taken to hospital for treatment.
Detective Inspector Barry McAtominey from Northumbria Police said: "This is an absolutely devastating incident in which two people have tragically lost their lives.
"All of our thoughts and condolences are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
"Enquiries remain at a very early stage, and with the support of our partners from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service we are determined to establish exactly what happened.
"We are asking anyone with information – no matter how small or insignificant it may seem – to come forward and share what they know.".
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Two neighbouring properties were evacuated as a precaution, and a small cordon remains in place.
A section of the road is still closed and officers are continuing to carry out enquiries in the area.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media or using the live chat and report forms on the force website using the reference number NP-20260701-0129.
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