RESIDENTS has spoken of their shock after a man's body was recovered following a fatal fire.

Cleveland Police has been at the address in east Cleveland throughout the day while scene of crime officers gather evidence.

Some neighbours were stopped from going back into their homes while the the area around Wheatacre Close, Marske, was cordoned off.

One man, who didn't want to be named, said: "I didn't know anything about it until I was woken up this morning. I know there has been some trouble at the house and this is the end result."

Several neighbours remained on their doorsteps while the white-suited forensic officers carried out a detailed search of the house.

A number of windows appear to have been smashed with some of the downstairs front windows boarded up.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Forensic officers working at the side entrance of the propertyForensic officers working at the side entrance of the property

One neighbour said: "There has been a few incidents since the bloke moved in but I have no idea what it is all about."

The force has confirmed a 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "Officers were called to an address on Wheatacre Close, Marske, by Cleveland Fire Brigade colleagues at around 2.15am today (June 9) where they were dealing with a house fire.

"On arrival a man from inside the address was discovered deceased. The man’s family have been notified and are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers. Police are not releasing his identity at this time.

"A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is in custody.

"Officers remain at the scene and detectives are carrying out extensive enquiries as our investigation continues."

  • Police are appealing to anyone with information from overnight or anything they’ve witnessed in recent days which they believe may assist. Detectives are also appealing for dashcam or CCTV footage. If you can assist call 101, reference 093555.