24 June 2023 , 21:28
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An investigation has been launched after a woman died in a house fire earlier today.
Greater Manchester Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called to the blaze on Saint Thomas Street North, Oldham, at around 4pm.
Despite the best efforts of first responders, a 42-year-old woman died at the scene.
Officers have confirmed her next of kin has been informed.
Road closures remain in place around the home and enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.
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A number of nearby homes were also evacuated.
One neighbour told how he and a neighbour bust the back door of the home down but were beaten back by the heat and smoke from the inside, Manchester Evening News reported.
He added: “It had spread along the houses, we were just trying to get people out.
"The firefighters were telling everyone to move back as people were just filming."
Chief Inspector Robert MacGregor said of the tragedy: “On behalf of GMP, I send condolences to the loved ones of the woman who has sadly died.
Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire and they will be kept updated.
“A number of residents remain displaced from their homes but have been provided with alternative accommodation by Oldham Council.
“We are working with partner agencies to get them back into their homes as safely and soon as possible.”
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) added searches had been made of four homes in and around the area.
GMFRS group manager for Bolton and Wigan Jean-Pierre Helliwell added: “The thoughts and deepest condolences of everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are with the family, friends and loved ones. “Our crews remain at the scene at this time and are working extremely hard to extinguish the fire.
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“We’re making use of all our available resources to bring the fire under control.
“I’d also like to thank Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service and our other partner agencies for their continued help.
“We’re incredibly saddened by the news."