| Tayside Police and Tayside Fire and Rescue were examining the scene to determine how the blaze, in the living room of the first-floor flat in Laidon Terrace, Downfield, began.
The woman was named locally as 71-year-old Doreen Doig. Her 66-year-old partner was rescued and taken to Ninewells Hospital. His condition was described today as “serious but stable”.
The alarm was raised shortly before 7 pm yesterday after a neighbour spotted smoke billowing from a window. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the flames but were unable to save the pensioner.
Ms Doig, who neighbours said lived in the street for several years, was a former employee of DC Thomson. She worked for 32 years in the advertising accounts department after starting work at the company’s Bank Street premises in May, 1966. She later moved to the Kingsway offices before retiring in August, 1998.
The man, said by neighbours to be Ms Doig’s companion of around 17 years, was pulled unconscious from the burning building by firefighters.
One neighbour, who did not want to be named, said she was shocked.
“I can’t believe it, it is just awful,” she said. “I only knew her as a neighbour, but she was always nice and friendly.”
Another neighbour said, “I saw the fire engine, ambulances and police in the road. I saw her partner carried out into the ambulance. I kept waiting to see if she came out, but she didn’t. It is just so sad.”
Forensic investigations into the fire’s cause were continuing today. It is understood formal identification of Ms Doig may have to rely on dental records being examined.
A police spokesperson said, “A joint investigation between Tayside Police and Tayside Fire and Rescue is ongoing to establish the full set of circumstances. The address remains cordoned off while further examination continues.”
Firefighters were also today offering neighbours a home fire safety visit.
Craig Smith, crew manager with Tayside Fire and Rescue, said, “We will look at potential fire hazards, how to make your home safer, as well as fitting a smoke alarm.”
He urged anyone who was interested in a free home fire safety visit to contact 01382 835804, text check to 61611 or visit the Tayside Fire and Rescue website. |
