Inquest opened into death of man who died in Hipperholme house fire

The blaze happened at a property on Waverley Crescent on Sunday afternoon. Firefighters tackled the fire and later found a man’s body inside.

Tributes have been paid to Ben Paul Cook, 21, who is believed to be a former pupil at Brighouse High School and Calderdale College.

Flowers have been laid outside the semi-detached property.

Tributes include “RIP Ben. A lovely lad gone much too soon,” Barry and Sara.

“Sleep in peace with the angels Ben,” love from Julie, Kerri, Kirsty, Paul, Nathan and Chloe.

“Such a tragic loss. Thinking of you,” love Vicky, John and family.

The scene was closed while a joint investigation was launched by West Yorkshire Police and West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Fire crews from Brighouse and Halifax were called to the fire just before 1.30pm.

Detective Inspector Gary Stephenson, from Calderdale District CID, said: “The body of a local man, aged in his twenties, was recovered from the property.

“There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances and a file has been passed to the coroner.”

WYFRS also confirmed that the investigation into the fire was continuing. A spokesperson said: “Sadly, this incident resulted in one male fatality.

“The cause of the fire remains under investigation. However, it is believed to be accidental.”

Halifax Coroners confirmed that an inquest is due to be opened and closed today, Thursday, and the man’s next of kin have been notified.