Pictures have captured the devastating scale of a fatal house fire in Merthyr Tydfil as police issue a new update on the tragedy. The incident began at around 9.40pm on Wednesday, January 8 at a house on Marshall Crescent, Penydarren.
Locals reported seeing a large emergency service presence in the area, including multiple fire engines, police vehicles and paramedics. Sadly on Thursday, South Wales Police confirmed a 37-year-old man had died.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) called the incident “extremely challenging”. It is understood that the fire was contained to one property. For the latest Merthyr Tydfil news, sign up to our newsletter here
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On Friday, South Wales Police confirmed that the circumstances that led to the incident are not thought to be suspicious. A spokeswoman for SWFRS added that the investigation to establish the cause of the fire is still ongoing and has not yet concluded.
Pictures taken of the house on Friday show the scale of the damage. The windows and door of the property appear smashed, while the interior looks black with soot. Outside the home a number of floral tributes can be seen, while police tape is also in place.
Floral tributes left outside the property
(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, but the circumstances are not thought to be suspicious
(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
An emergency service presence was also observed in the area while the investigation continues. A spokesman for South Wales Police said on Thursday: “Police and fire service are investigating a house fire which was reported at around 9.40pm [on Wednesday] at an address in Marshall Crescent, Penydarren.
“A 37-year-old man has died, next of kin and the coroner have been informed. The cause of the fire, which was contained to one property, is not known at this stage. The local community is thanked for their patience and understanding while cordons and road closures remain in place.”
Firefighters say they worked hard to bring the fire under control
(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
SWFRS shared on Thursday: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a fatal fire occurred yesterday, January 8, 2025 in Penydarren, Merthyr Tydfil. Fire appliances from Merthyr and surrounding areas responded swiftly to the incident and worked tirelessly to bring the incident under control.
“Fire investigation teams are on scene and working closely with South Wales Police to determine the cause and origin of the fire. We would like to take this opportunity to remind members of the public of the importance of working smoke alarms and the development of a nighttime routine and closing doors. Further details will be provided as soon as they become available. We ask that the public respect the privacy of those affected by this tragedy.”
The property looks black with soot
(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
Area manager Matt Jones, head of operations, added: “This was an extremely challenging incident, and our firefighters and joint fire control room staff worked hard to resolve the incident and stop any further spread to other properties. I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my condolences to the family, friends, and the surrounding communities.”