Tragedy struck the Chalford community near Stroud when a house fire claimed the life of a man on Monday night, January 12. Emergency services were alerted at around 10:20 pm to a blaze on Cirencester Road. Firefighters and police quickly responded, and the road has remained closed since the early hours for safety and investigation.
Gloucestershire Police confirmed that after a thorough search of the property, the man was found deceased inside. His family has been notified, and the surrounding homes were evacuated as a precaution. Emergency crews continue to secure the scene on Tuesday, January 13, with a cordon in place to facilitate ongoing enquiries.
This heartbreaking incident follows closely on the heels of another fatal fire just five miles away in Brimscombe, which claimed the lives of a mother and her two children, deepening the sorrow in the local community.
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Anton Campbell, Local Policing Superintendent for Stroud and the Cotswolds, expressed sympathy for those affected: “This upsetting news comes just weeks after the fatal house fire in nearby Brimscombe. We recognize the additional distress this brings to our community already in mourning. Our thoughts remain with the man’s family and all those impacted.”
He also extended gratitude to residents evacuated during the incident for their patience and commended emergency responders for their tireless efforts at the scene. Enquiries are underway to determine the cause of the fire, and police presence will remain prominent in the area over the coming days.
Currently, Cirencester Road is closed between The Ragged Cot Inn and the A419 roundabout, with Gypsy Lane also inaccessible. A damaged power cable resulted in a temporary electricity outage affecting approximately 20 homes, though National Grid has since restored power.
Matt Amey, Area Manager at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, acknowledged the community’s grief: “We understand the impact this tragic fire has, especially so soon after the Brimscombe incident. We are here to support the community and to promote fire safety.”
He encouraged residents to take proactive measures against fire risks, recommending a free online Home Fire Safety Check available at ohfsc.co.uk, which offers personalized guidance for making homes safer. For those without internet access, assistance is available by calling 0800 180 4140.
As emergency teams continue their work, the community is urged to stay vigilant and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.