Portsmouth flat fire death prompts inquiry

An investigation has begun after a man died following a fire at a block of flats in Portsmouth.

The fire began in the fifth floor of Omega House, an eight-storey building in Omega Street, Southsea, on Monday afternoon.

The 53-year-old man was taken to hospital but later died.

Fire crews found a replica grenade and other replica firearms at the flat and residents were evacuated to a neighbouring community centre.

Hampshire Police said the fire was contained in the flat. No-one else was hurt.

A post-mortem examination and formal identification are due to take place.