Investigation continues into Chorley house collapse
One man was killed following house fire and explosion in Clayton-Le-Woods.
AN investigation is continuing into a fatal house fire in Clayton le Woods.
Emergency services were called at around 1.30pm on Friday, October 15 to a report of a fire where a house had collapsed on Kirkby Avenue.
Sadly, the body of a man was found inside the property, and although a formal identification has yet to take place, it is believed to be the occupant of the house, Carl Whalley, 57 years.
A post-mortem examination will be carried out this week and an investigation into the cause of the blaze is continuing.
Detective Chief Inspector Zoe Russo, of South Division, said: “My thoughts remain with Mr Whalley’s family and loved ones at this time and we have officers who are supporting them.
“Our investigation is focussed on trying to establish how the fire started and we remain in the relatively early stages of that investigation. As I’m sure people will understand we are faced with an extremely complex scene and we have a number of enquiries to undertake so it may take some time to establish the exact circumstances.
“I would appeal to anyone who has any information and has not yet spoken to police to come forward and I would especially appeal to anyone with any CCTV, Ring doorbell footage or dashcam footage to get in touch.
“We are aware of some allegations made on social media by Mr Whalley and suggestions of a neighbour dispute and we are looking into these matters as part of our enquiries.”
We are also in the process of reviewing the circumstances of the incident to determine whether a mandatory referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct is required.
Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting log reference 0756 of October 15th. Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted 0800 555 111