Hemel Hempstead fire: Murder probe after three found dead

Three people were found dead after a fire in Stuarts Close

A murder investigation has been launched after three people, believed to be members of a family, were found dead after house fire.

Two women, aged 50 and 24, and a 57-year-old man were pronounced dead at the property in Stuarts Close, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, at about 12:30 BST on Sunday.

Police said it was believed to be an isolated incident.

A joint investigation with the fire service is under way.

Det Insp Iain MacPherson, from the Beds, Cambs and Hertfordshire major crime unit, said his thoughts were with those affected, adding: "Police are following all lines of enquiry and considering all possible motives.

"We are dealing with three suspicious deaths and are not looking for anyone else in connection to this incident at this time."

Neighbours said they believed the three people were a husband, wife and daughter.

The three people were found dead in a property in Stuarts Close

Neighbour Peter Downer saw smoke coming from the bathroom at the front of the four-bedroom house in Stuarts Close and raised the alarm.

Mr Downer, 67, said: "We called the fire brigade when I saw smoke coming from the toilet. We were shocked when we heard what happened.

"They were a quiet family and had lived here for a long time."

A major investigation by the fire service and police is under way