A murder investigation is under way after a man died following a house fire in Highters Heath in the early hours of this morning.

Emergency services were called to a property on Saxons Way, shortly before 01:10 am (19/09).

A man in his 30s was found with serious injuries and taken to hospital, but died a short time later.

Police say they believe the fire was started deliberately. Officers remain at the scene as enquiries continue.

A spokesperson said: “Our investigation is at an early stage as we work to establish exactly what happened. We would urge anyone with concerns or information to speak to us.”

As part of the investigation, officers also recovered what is believed to be a petrol can found a short distance away on Highters Heath Lane, near the corner of Pickenham Road in Maypole.

Anyone with information or footage is asked to call police on 101 quoting log 174 of 19 September, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.