Drake Street Closed - after mystery fire

Date published: 09/05/2005

A call was made to the fire brigade at 2.50am on Monday morning, following reports of a “well developed fire”, which has resulted in one fatality and destroyed the building of Sizzles, a take away shop on Drake Street. The fire grew stronger through the building until the roof had completely collapsed, instantly killing a man who was inside at the time. It has recently been confirmed that the casualty was male and was pronounced dead on the scene early this morning.

Paul Duggan, Station Officer from the Greater Manchester and Rescue Service said: We received the call from a private phone. The fire was well developed by the time we’d arrived so it has been going a while.

“Some of our squad were inside when they heard loud noises, and they left immediately – just before the roof collapsed right through the building.”

“This is now being considered as a multi agency investigation as the police, fire and detectives are all involved, we will keep Rochdale Online informed with updates.”

The investigation into the death is being sent to Coroners Court.

Update:  Two men from Rochdale, aged 30 and 41, have been arrested on suspicion of murder. They remain in police custody for questioning. More updates will appear online as we receive them.