Investigation launched after pensioner dies in Tow Law fire

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service confirmed on Tuesday (January 16) that a woman had died in her home on Westdale View in Tow Law at around 2.20pm on Monday (January 15).

Emergency services were still at the scene on Tuesday (January 16) (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Firefighters from Crook Bishop Auckland and Consett, alongside police and paramedics, were called to the incident after reports of smoke coming from the property.

The fire service confirmed a pensioner was pronounced dead at the scene. 

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said the property has been made safe and a joint investigation with Durham Police is underway to determine the cause of the fire. 

A police cordon on the gate in Tow Law (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

On Tuesday afternoon, images of the scene showed fire investigation officers were spotted at the scene of the incident, while police tape could be seen on the gate of the property in Tow Law that was hit by fire. 

Following the confirmation of the death of the pensioner, a spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "As a fire service, this is never the outcome we hope for.

Fire investigation officers at the property (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

"First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and friends of those affected by this tragic incident.

"We ask that people give her family and loved ones the privacy they need as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened.

The property where the pensioner died on Monday (January 15) (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

"As a service, we aim to protect and educate the members of our communities about the dangers of fire."

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The spokesperson added: "At a time like this we are reminded of the dangers of fire and urge all residents to take up our offer of a free home fire safety visit where we can provide fire safety advice for your home and fit smoke alarms.

"If you already have a smoke alarm, remember to test it once a week.

"Fire crews from Crook Fire Station will be working in the neighbourhood today to offer reassurance to neighbours and provide home fire safety advice."