Person dies in house fire in Shetland as investigation launched into ‘challenging’ blaze

A “well-developed” house fire at a two-storey property in the Shetland Islands has left one person dead.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) dispatched six fire engines to the scene in the Walls area at around 11.09pm on September 30.

Crews encountered a “well-developed fire in a two-story residence” before they were able to extinguish the fire.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene.

SFRS said it was a “challenging incident” for firefighters and an investigation was underway alongside Police Scotland.

Scott Gibson, SFRS area commander and local senior officer for the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland, said: “We were alerted at 11.09pm on Monday September 30 to reports of a house fire in the Walls area of ​​Shetland.

“Operations management mobilized six fire appliances to the scene where firefighters encountered a well-developed fire in a two-story residential building.

“Firefighters extinguished the fire and then left the area.

“Unfortunately it was determined that one person had died at the scene of the accident.

“This was a challenging incident and our thoughts are with everyone affected at this sad time.

“A joint investigation between SFRS and Police Scotland is currently underway.”

Scottish Police have been contacted for comment.