Southampton: How Milton Road house fire is likely to have started

They say the blaze, which resulted in several Milton Road residents being evacuated, was most likely the result of an electrical fault.

The fire broke out just after 3pm on Saturday and is thought to have affected every room in the property.

A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, but less than 24 hours later police said the blaze was no longer thought to have been started deliberately.

Flames shot out of the house at the height of the blaze (Image: Newsquest.)

As the fire took hold flames erupted from the front of the building - believed to be a house of multiple occupation (HMO).

Crews from two Southampton fire stations - Hightown and St Mary's - fought to bring the blaze under control and prevent it spreading to adjoining homes.

On Sunday fire investigators wearing masks and helmets examined the charred interior and took photographs of the damage.

READ MORE: House fire scene sealed off as investigation continues

Milton Road resident Miranda Norris, 27, said she saw flames and a huge amount of black smoke pouring from the property.

She added: "We were all focused on getting the fire service here as quickly as possible because it was getting really bad, really fast.

"It wasn't that long before the fire engines turned up but it seemed to take ages.

"The fire was going everywhere - it was horrific."

Fire damage was also visible at the back of the property (Image: Newsquest.)

A 19-year-old student who lives next door to the house added: "I looked out and saw smoke coming out of the back windows.

"I was told to wait up the street and must have been there for a good two hours.

"The heat from the fire broke one of my windows and my home smells of smoke."

A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said an electrical fault was the most likely cause of the fire.