Police are investigating what is understood to be a fatal house fire in Christchurch. Photo / Christchurch Star
Police are investigating a fatal house fire in Christchurch this afternoon and say the death is unexplained.
Emergency services were called to Caulfield Ave, in Halswell, about 12.30pm after reports of the blaze.
Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Cottam said that on arrival, emergency crews located a body inside the house.
"At this stage, the death is unexplained,'' he said.
"A scene guard will be in place overnight. An investigation is under way and police are unable to comment further at this time.''
Earlier, a police spokeswoman said the fire was being treated as suspicious.
At the scene, the house has been cordoned off with police tape.
A blue tarpaulin has been put up in front of the home. Blackened windows can be seen just behind it.
Police officers in high-vis jackets surround the house and a car is parked just in front.
A neighbour told the Christchurch Star they saw firefighters breaking down a door to get inside. Police arrived shortly afterwards.
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