A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man died in a house fire early today.

Police have arrested one man and a juvenile male in connection with the fire in The Glade, Malvern - which is being treated as arson.

They remain in police custody and are curently being questioned by detectives on suspicion of murder.

Police were called to the blaze, in which 37-year-old Richard Perkins died, at around 1.45am today.

Detective Superintendent Andy Rowsell, head of West Mercia Constabulary’s Major Incident Unit, said: “We are in the early stages of this major investigation and we would like to hear from anyone who has information which they think may be useful to the enquiry.

“We are urging anyone who was in the area of The Glade between 9.30pm last night and 2am today to get in touch as soon as possible.

“Please call 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

“Do not assume that others will call police, your information may be vital in piecing together what happened in this incident.”

Four other people were in the house when the fire started. Three are still in hospital being treated for smoke inhalation - two of whom are fighting for their lives.

  • Please leave your tributes to the victim below our main story here.