Murder arrest after man dies in house fire

Emergency services were called to Charles Witts Avenue, in Hereford, at about 19:00 BST on Thursday

A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 33-year-old man died in a house fire in Hereford.

Emergency services were called to the blaze in Charles Witts Avenue at about 19:00 BST on Thursday.

The man was found to have suffered "serious injures" and confirmed dead at the scene, West Midlands Ambulance Service said. A woman, who was also found, was later taken to hospital suffering from the effects of smoke.

West Mercia Police says the suspect, aged 30, has been detained on suspicion of murder and remains in custody while inquiries continue.

The woman, 56, is being treated at Hereford County Hospital.

Det Insp Catherine Taylor, from the force, said the man's death was being treated as suspicious and an investigation had been launched.

"At this stage all lines of inquiry are being explored. Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this difficult time," she said.