[UPDATE] Fatal New Bedford Fire Under Investigation
UPDATE 7PM - The Bristol County District Attorney's Office says the death of a man found in a burned home in New Bedford's West End has been ruled suspicious.
The State Medical Examiner has taken custody of the body, and an autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death.
The victim's name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
UPDATE 2:40PM - New Bedford Police, State Police assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney's Office, and the State Fire Marshall remain on the scene in the West End of New Bedford, where a fire broke out in a two-story home earlier today.
After firefighters brought the blaze at 55 Rounds Street under control, they discovered a male body on the second floor.
The State Medical Examiner is taking custody of the body, and an autopsy will be scheduled.
New Bedford Police Detective Captain Steven Vicente stopped short of calling the fire suspicious in nature.
The victim, whose name has not yet been released, is known to police. Vicente says police responded to the address several months ago over a neighbor dispute involving the victim. Several marijuana plants were found during that investigation, and police say a small amount of potted marijuana plants were found after today's fire, though they are not believed to be connected to the cause of the fire.
The cause of death and the fire remain under investigation.
Police are also asking if anyone saw anything suspicious, they are urged to call detectives at 508-991-6300, or leave an anonymous tip by calling 508-961-4584.
ORIGINAL STORY - New Bedford Firefighters were called to 55 Rounds Street in the West End to battle a house fire this morning.
It appears the fire started on the 2nd floor and firefighters brought it under control.
New Bedford Police were called to the scene because a body was found in the house and the fire is being treated as a crime scene.
The State Medical Examiner is en route to the scene.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.