Whanganui house fire victim named

Police can now confirm the identity of the woman who died in the house fire at Maxwells Avenue, Durie Hill, Whanganui on 11 December 2012.

Ellen Marie Newland, aged 32 was the sole occupant in the house at the time of the fire which was around 1pm.

Detective Sergeant Phil Taylor of the Whanganui Police said: "The cause of the fire has been established as an electrical fault."

The Police investigation is continuing and the local Fire Service is assisting with this. Police are not treating the fire as suspicious.

"This is a tragedy for Ellen's family and our thoughts are with them during this difficult and painful time," said Detective Sergeant Taylor.

This matter has now been referred to the coroner.

Please respect the families need for privacy at this time.

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