Murder investigation launched after woman found dead following house fire

Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a woman in Norfolk.

Police were called just before 9.10am on Friday (11 June) to help firefighters following reports of a fire at an address in Cherwell Way.

A woman, aged in her 60s, was found inside the property. Sadly she was declared dead at the scene.

She was initially thought to have died in the fire but since then police say enquiries have led detectives to treat her death as murder. A Post Mortem examination carried out concluded she died from compression to her neck. 

Pending formal Coroner’s inquest proceedings, police have provisionally identified the deceased as Linda Hood, aged 68.

Detective Inspector Lewis Craske said: "This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with her friends and family at this awful time. We continue to work alongside specialist investigators to establish the exact circumstances leading up to the fire and we are keen to speak with anyone who may be able to assist us with our enquiries.

He added "We know this will cause concern among local residents, however please be reassured that the local community will see an increased police presence in the area over the following days.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Norfolk Police on 101 quoting incident number 100 of 11 June 2021 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.