Searches at Sandhurst property complete after fatal house fire

A man in his 80s died earlier this month

Author: Jon BurkePublished 25th Jun 2025

Searches have been completed at a property in Sandhurst, after a fire in which a man died.

Officers from Thames Valley Police were on the scene at Oak Avenue.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Penrith of the East Berkshire Local Command Unit, said: “On 6 June officers were called to a house on Oak Avenue, to reports of a fire. First aid was provided to a man in his 80s. He was taken to hospital by air ambulance, but despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he sadly died in hospital.

“Our thoughts remain with the family of the man. A coronial investigation into the death is ongoing.

“During searches of the property, officers located potentially flammable and hazardous materials, which were stored in containers within the property.

“A decommissioned mortar was also located and disposed of safely.

“An operation with support from other agencies was launched to remove the material, and we can now confirm that all of the materials have been removed safely and will be disposed of.

“Although no immediate risk to health was identified, it was vital that we took all precaution to protect residents and those who were working to remove the material.

“I would like to thank the residents for their patience and understanding while we carried out this work.

“Our officers and supporting agencies have now left the property.

“I would also like to publicly thank all of our partners who supported us in bringing this incident safely to a close”.

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