Detectives probing last week’s fatal house fire, which tragically claimed the life of a man in his 20s, have released 2 men on bail but continue to question another 2 men on suspicion of murder.
As first reported by Island Echo, emergency services were called to Ronsons Close, Cowes, at 03:32 on Friday morning (26th June) when a blaze ripped through the roof space of a terraced home, causing significant damage.
Firefighters battled the flames for several hours before discovering the body of a man inside the property, thought to be in bed.
Island Echo understands 2 other people were able to escape the fatal fire, as well as residents asleep in neighbouring properties.
In the hours after the blaze, a 28-year-old man from Ventnor was arrested on suspicion of murder, arson with intent to endanger life and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He has since been bailed with conditions until 27th September while enquiries continue.
On Saturday night, Police arrested a further 3 men – a 24-year-old man, another 24-year-old man and a 59-year-old man, all from Cowes – on suspicion of murder and arson with intent to endanger life.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has now provided a further update on the status of those arrests.
The force has confirmed that the pair of 24-year-old men from Cowes remain in custody while enquiries continue. They are being quizzed by specialist detectives.
Meanwhile, the 59-year-old man – arrested at the same time – has been released on bail with conditions until 27th September.
Police continue to appeal for anyone who was in the Ronsons Close area around the time of the incident, or anyone with doorbell, dashcam or CCTV footage that could assist the investigation, to come forward. Anyone with information can call Police on 101, quoting 44260302232.
Ronsons Close remains closed, with a heightened police presence expected to remain in the area while enquiries continue.
