A 66-year-old woman has tragically died following a devastating house fire on Portsdown Road in Portchester during the early hours of Monday, February 24.
Emergency services were alerted to the fire at around 5:15 AM, with multiple fire crews from across the region rushing to the scene. Despite their rapid response, the woman was later pronounced dead at Queen Alexandra Hospital, where she had been taken for treatment.
Extensive Emergency Response
Crews from Portchester, Cosham, Fareham, Waterlooville, Southsea, and Eastleigh worked tirelessly to combat the blaze, which had fully engulfed the property by the time they arrived. Images from the scene reveal the scale of the emergency response, with several fire engines and emergency vehicles lining Portsdown Road, which was closed in both directions.
A spokesperson for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed:
“We were called at 5:28 AM today to a report of a fire at a house on Portsdown Road, Portsmouth. A 66-year-old woman was taken to Queen Alexandra Hospital where, sadly, she was pronounced dead. Her next of kin have been informed.”
The spokesperson also noted that an investigation is now underway in collaboration with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the fire.
“A scene will remain in place while these enquiries are carried out,” they added.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the blaze remains unclear, and authorities have urged anyone with information or who may have witnessed anything unusual in the early hours of Monday morning to come forward. Fire investigators will be conducting a thorough assessment of the property once it is deemed safe to enter.
Road Closures and Local Impact
Portsdown Road remains closed in both directions while emergency services continue their investigation and to ensure the safety of the surrounding area. Local residents have been advised to avoid the area and follow any instructions from emergency personnel on the scene.
Community Tributes
Neighbours have begun laying flowers near the cordoned-off property in tribute to the woman who lost her life. One local resident, Sarah Jenkins, said:
“It’s heartbreaking. She was such a lovely woman, always friendly and kind. We’re all in shock.”
Appeal for Information
Anyone who may have seen anything unusual in the area or who has relevant information is urged to contact Hampshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 240225/PortsdownFire, or reach out anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
