Detectives have launched a murder investigation following a house fire in Stoke-on-Trent yesterday afternoon (Thursday 9 February).

Staffordshire Police were called at 3.10pm by colleagues from the ambulance service to reports of a serious house fire on Campbell Road, Stoke.

Tragically, a 40-year-old woman was found deceased.

Police continue to work with colleagues from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service who are examining the scene. This is likely to take several days while they work to establish the exact circumstances of the fire.

The woman's family are being supported by specially-trained family liaison officers at this devastating time and our thoughts remain with them.

Campbell Road, Stoke, Stoke-on-Trent (Google).

Detective Superintendent Nicki Addison from the Major and Organised Crime Team said: "This is a tragic case and we are working hard to understand more about what happened yesterday afternoon and who was responsible. We are keeping an open mind and would ask people not to speculate on the circumstances at this stage as it is distressing for family and friends, and could hinder our enquiries.

"This is a complex investigation and we continue to work closely with fire and rescue colleagues. I would encourage anyone who has any information, and not yet spoken to us, to do so as soon as they can.

"I understand the concern felt by those close to the house as well as further afield, and thank everyone for their patience around the cordon."

Anyone with information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage that could help police should visit the UK Police Major Incident Public Reporting site.

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