Christchurch fire that killed mother and daughter not suspicious

Flowers left at the scene on Whitehall St in Mairehau.

A house fire that killed a Christchurch mother and her young daughter earlier this month started in a bedroom, and there are no suspicious circumstances.

Emergency services were called to the home on Whitehall St in the suburb of Mairehau at around 8.25pm on May 14.

In an update on Friday, Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan said police and Fire and Emergency investigating the fatal blaze had determined the blaze was not suspicious.

Investigations indicated the fire began in one of the bedrooms, with an electrical fault ruled out, she said.

"The matter has been referred to the Coroner, and at this stage, no criminal proceedings are being considered."

Carolan said the fire was "heartbreaking and a tragedy for the family".

"Police and FENZ extend their deepest sympathies to the whānau. While the family are grateful for the support from the community, they are requesting privacy at this time."

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