Man found dead in Chalford house fire tragedy
A man's body has been found at the scene of a house fire near Stroud.Emergency services were called to the fire in Chalford at around 10.20pm on Monday, January 12, following reports of a blaze in Cirencester Road.Fire crews and police officers were sent to the scene and the road has been closed since the early hours of the morning.Gloucestershire Police said the property was searched and a man was found dead inside the address. His next of kin have been informed.Surrounding properties were evacuated. Emergency services remain at the scene on Tuesday, January 13 and a cordon is in place.It comes only weeks after a tragic fire just five miles away in Brimscombe, in which a mum and her two children lost their lives.Local policing Superintendent for Stroud and Cotswolds, Anton Campbell, said: "This upsetting news comes just weeks after the fatal house fire in nearby Brimscombe, and therefore I do not underestimate the further upset this will likely cause to our staff and a community already grieving."We feel and share that pain with you too, and our thoughts are with the man's family and with all those impacted."I would like to take the time to thank those who were evacuated for their patience and understanding while work took place to ensure their safety."My thanks also goes to the first responders and those within the emergency services who continue their work at the scene. Enquiries will take place to establish the cause of the fire, and those who live in the area will see a police presence for the coming days."Cirencester Road is still closed between The Ragged Cot Inn and the A419 roundabout. Gypsy Lane is also closed.A power cable was damaged during the incident and National Grid has since restored electricity to around 20 affected properties.Emergency services are investigating the cause of the fire and the closures are likely to remain in place while the building's structure is deemed safe so official enquiries can continue.Matt Amey, area manager at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We understand that this tragic fire, coming so soon after the recent incident in Brimscombe, may cause further concern and sadness in the community. Please be reassured that we are here to support you and help keep you safe."While a fire in the home can be devastating, there are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk and protect yourself and the people you care about."Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging everyone to complete a free online Home Fire Safety Check at https://ohfsc.co.uk . It provides personalised advice to help make your home safer. In some cases, you may also be offered a home fire safety visit for extra reassurance."If you don’t have internet access, you can call 0800 180 4140, and we’ll guide you through the check over the phone."
