Gnowangerup fire: One dead after horrific blaze that destroyed home, arson squad investigating

A body has been pulled from the ruins of a Gnowangerup home that was destroyed in a horrific fire in the early hours of Thursday morning. Firefighters rushed to the property on House Street in the Great Southern town not long after receiving a triple-0 call about 3.07am. They found the home fully engulfed by flames. It took more than an hour for firefighters to bring the ferocious blaze under control. Acting Great Southern Superintendent Paul McMurtie confirmed that what is believed to be remains was discovered at the home late on Thursday. “Late today what is believe to be human remains have been located within the fire scene,” Act. Supt McMurtrie said. “Due to the bio hazards of the site, further examinations will require specialist equipment. “Investigation will continue into the cause of the fire (on Friday).” Act. Supt McMurtrie said the scene will remain under guard overnight until investigators return on Friday. Members of the arson and forensic squads arrived at the burnt-out home about 10am. They were briefed by firefighters and police. The area was taped off as a crime scene and House Street is closed to the public, along with the nearby intersection of Aylmore Street. A Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman confirmed that volunteer crews from Gnowangerup, Katanning and Kojonup, along with career firefighters from Albany, attended the blaze, which was put out by 4.35am. Police also attended the fire and two crews from St John WA were called out. A WA Police spokeswoman said the house was completely gutted by the fire and investigations were continuing. Firefighters and police remain at the home. Western Power was also in attendance.