Worcester flat fire treated as 'suspicious'
A fire at a house converted into a block of flats in Worcester is being treated as suspicious, police say.
Fire crews spent the night at the scene in Barbourne Road and people living nearby were moved away.
The police helicopter was also called out to help look for fire hot spots.
Nobody was injured but West Mercia Police said a fire service cordon remains around the building until it can be confirmed structurally safe.
Several roads close to the building were closed but have since reopened under temporary traffic lights.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said the fire, close to the A38 Upper Tything, was in a three-storey building, with the first and second floors affected along with the roof space.
Up to 40 firefighters tackled the blaze at its height.
Det Sgt Phil Colley said: "We are treating the fire as suspicious at this time and are continuing to work closely with the fire brigade as investigations continue.
"I would like to appeal for any witnesses who may have seen anyone or anything suspicious in the Barbourne Road area anytime from around 2200 BST last night.
"House to house enquiries have continued throughout the day and officers are currently reviewing CCTV opportunities in the area."
Ch Insp Jerry Reakes-Williams said: "There was significant disruption to traffic flow in the area throughout today while we waited for a structural engineer to confirm the area was safe for traffic and pedestrians to enter.
"A smaller amount of disruption is likely to continue while further structural investigations and work continues at the site and I would like to thank motorists for their continuing co-operation."