Fatal fire at house 'suspicious'

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Three firefighters were injured in the blaze in Great Lever

Police are treating a house fire in Greater Manchester in which a 71-year-old woman died as suspicious.

The fire broke out at Little Holme Walk in Great Lever, Bolton, late on Monday.

A 24-year-old woman remains seriously ill and a five-year-old girl, a man in his 70s and three firefighters are also being treated in hospital.

Greater Manchester Police said officers were keeping an "open mind" on the cause of the fire and are urging any witnesses to speak to them.

According to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, the alarm was raised by a smoke detector but as the blaze was blocking the front door, crews had to force their way in around the back of the house.

We will work with our partners to find out how this tragedy happened Vinny Simpson

Firefighters pulled four people out, but the 71-year-old woman died in hospital.

The younger woman is in a stable condition at the Royal Bolton Hospital and the child was taken to Pendlebury Children's Hospital where her condition is described as poorly.

The man suffered burns to his leg and hand which are not life-threatening.

Three firefighters were hurt with one with up to 50% burns to his lower back and legs, and serious burns to his hands.

Vinny Simpson, from the fire service, said: "At this time our thoughts are with the family and friends of the lady who died and the other occupants of the house who were involved in this tragic incident.

"We will work with our partners to find out how this tragedy happened.

Extra patrols

"I would also like to recognise the outstanding bravery of the firefighters who entered the property to rescue the occupants in very physically demanding conditions, disregarding the risk to themselves in an attempt to save them."

A police spokesman said an investigation had begun.

"Detectives are keeping an open mind about the origins and cause of the fire, but in line with procedure this is being as suspicious at this stage," he said.

Extra patrols are in the area and officers want to speak to anyone who was in the Little Holme Walk area between 2200 BST and midnight.