Police have confirmed an 11-year-old boy and his mother died after a house fire in Southland’s Manapouri yesterday morning.
Emergency services were called to the View St property at about 3.40am and were told people may still be inside.
Police said yesterday one person had been found dead following the “unexplained” fire and Detective Sergeant Mark McCloy said earlier today a second person had been found dead.
“At this time, we are satisfied nobody else was home,” McCloy said this afternoon.
“A third person lived at the address but was at work when the fire began.”
Police said investigators remain at the scene “in an effort to determine what caused this fire”.
A crane was used to remove parts of the “remaining sections of roof” to allow access to police and FENZ investigators.
“Due to the significant damage, this work takes time, and we expect the scene examination to continue through the weekend.”
McCloy called the event “tragic” and said “our hearts go out to the family”.
“Events like this are tragic, and we are ensuring there is appropriate support in place for those affected by this terrible event.”
Southland District Council Mayor Rob Scott is driving to the township of Manapouri to offer his support.
“It’s really tough, very tough. It’s a tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone.”
He said the community will be wrapping its arms around the victims’ family.
“The family will need some space and time, and the community will be helping to protect them right now.”
