Fatal fire in Condorrat “tragedy felt very deeply across community”

The fire, at a one-floor property in Craigelvan Gardens, started at 11,20am and emergency services are still working to ensure the site is safe and determine the cause of the incident, in which an elderly woman died and a man is also being treated for injuries.

Two fire crews from Cumbernauld were joined by a third from Easterhouse and a fourth from Kilsyth in tackling the blaze, which was already well underway when it was reported at 11.20am.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “Teams in breathing apparatus entered the property to search for anyone inside and sadly they located a woman who had died.

“Firefighting operations were conducted both inside and outside the house and the fire was brought under control, however due to a partial structural collapse it is likely to be some time before crews can confirm it has been fully extinguished.”

Paramedics treated an injured man at the scene and investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

The SFRS spokesman added: “The loss of life through fire is always a tragedy felt very deeply across a community.

“While we cannot comment on the circumstances of this specific incident our thoughts are very much with the woman’s family and friends at what will clearly be an incredibly difficult time for them.

“In the wake of today’s terrible events we would of course remind anyone who is worried about the risk of fire in the home that they can contact us for support.

“Our crews routinely conduct free home fire saefty visits and if someone is concerned then they shouldn’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

To request a home safety visit call 0800 073 1999.