Theory behind house fire that killed woman

The body of a woman was found in the home on Wednesday following the fire.
The body of a woman was found in the home on Wednesday following the fire.

An elderly woman has died in a house fire, believed to be sparked from clothing being dried in front of a heater that ignited.

Emergency services were called following reports of smoke and flames billowing from a front window of a home in Weigela Court in Forest Hill, in eastern Melbourne, about 7.40pm on Wednesday.

The body of a woman was found in the home on Wednesday following the fire.
The body of a woman was found in the home on Wednesday following the fire.

Fire Rescue Victoria was able to get the fire under control about 17 minutes after firefighters arrived.

Firefighters entered the home wearing breathing apparatus and found the woman inside.

She was taken outside and given CPR but died at the scene.

The woman is yet to be formally identified.

Another person found inside the home was treated for smoke inhalation.

The single-storey weatherboard home sustained damage to one room.

Firefighters believe the fire started from clothing being dried in front of a heater that ignited.
Firefighters believe the fire started from clothing being dried in front of a heater that ignited.

At this stage, the fire is not thought to be suspicious.

Anyone who witnessed the fire or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.