Woman dies in Forest Hill house fire

A woman has died following a house fire in Melbourne’s east on Wednesday evening.

Emergency services were called to a single-storey weatherboard house in Weigela Court, Forest Hill about 7.40pm after reports of a fire.

Upon arrival, firefighters entered the home wearing breathing apparatus and located an elderly female.

They provided emergency medical treatment to the woman until paramedics arrived, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. She is yet to be identified.

One other person was treated for smoke inhalation.

It took firefighters about 17 minutes to control the blaze.

In a statement, Fire Rescue Victoria said the fire is believed to have started from clothing being dried in front of a heater that ignited.

Victoria Police said they were not treating the blaze as suspicious, but the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.