One person dies following a fatal fire in west Belfast

THE PSNI and Fire Service have launched an investigation after a fatal fire in west Belfast.

One person died after a fire at a house in Lenadoon Avenue at midnight on Wednesday.

Alan Hamill from the Fire and Rescue Service said crews worked in “very punishing conditions” to put out the blaze.

“The first fire crews were faced with a very severe fire on the first floor in the attack of a semi-detached house.

“It became apparent quite quickly of the possibility that someone was still inside the house.

He added: “Unfortunately [fire fighters] quickly discovered the deceased in a bedroom in the attic of the house.”

Mr Hamill said extensive fire damage at the house meant it was not clear if smoke alarms had been fitted.