Woman's 'violent death' in fire was homicide, say police

The police and Fire Service at the scene of a fatal house fire in Glenfield. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Police have launched a homicide investigation after a house fire in suburban Glenfield claimed a woman's life on Saturday.

Police began a forensic scene examination soon after they were called to an address in View Road at about 7.30pm on Saturday.

The property has been cordoned off since the body of a female was discovered inside the house and a second person, a male, was located nearby with serious burns. The man is in Middlemore Hospital in an induced coma.

Detective Senior Sergeant Kim Libby of the North Shore CIB says a post mortem examination has been completed. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

"The autopsy findings and ongoing enquiries by police reveal that the
deceased suffered a violent death," he said.

"Police are not seeking anyone else concerning this death."

"A team of 20 investigators are assigned to this homicide investigation. Fire Safety Officers continue to assist police. ESR staff will continue their search for forensic clues."

"The name of the deceased female victim will be released when all known relatives and next of kin have been notified," Detective Senior Sergeant Kim Libby said.

- NZ Herald staff