A fire that killed 80-year-old woman in her flat in Portaferry, Co Down, may have been caused by a candle or cigarette.
Fire Service Assistant Area Commander Alan Fulford said it appeared the fire had been smouldering for some time.
"The flat did have a fire alarm fitted and there were reports of an alarm being sounded about an hour before we were alerted to it. Nobody managed to locate where it was coming from. When we got there the fire was going for at least an hour."
Police are due to carry out a forensic examination this morning.
"We are pretty sure the fire was accidental and are waiting for the report from the PSNI," Mr Fulford said.
