Family pay tribute to elderly couple, 91 and 88, killed in horror house fire as schoolboy, 16, arrested over ‘murder’

THE FAMILY of an elderly couple who died in a horiffic house fire have paid tribute to the pair.

Stan Rickman, 91, and Roma Rickman, 88, were found dead at their home in Alton, Hampshire, at around 4am on Monday, following the devastating blaze.

Google MapsEmergency services had rushed to the couple’s home at around 4am on Monday[/caption]

A schoolboy, 16, had been arrested on suspicion of murder on Thursday but he was released on bail the following day.

Stan and Roma’s family said today: “The family would like to thank everyone who has left flowers and kind messages but please respect our privacy at this difficult time.”

Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Constabulary said it was called to the property shortly after the fire service had rushed to the scene in the early hours of the morning.

An investigation is ongoing into the circumstances surrounding their deaths, although cops confirmed it was the fire which killed the couple.

Other tributes have also been paid to the family on social media.

One wrote: “Our hearts & thoughts go out to the Rickman family.

“Unbelievably shocking & sad.

“Love & hugs to all the family.”

Another added: “This is awful.

“My thoughts go out to the family and friends.

“RIP to Stan & Roma.”

Detectives are currently desperately appealing for information to help with their probe.

They have asked for people to come forward who may have seen any suspicious behaviour in the area of Heron Close between midnight and 5am on April 14.

Cops are also appealing for members of the public to come forward with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage from these times.

You can contact the force by calling 101, asking for Hampshire Constabulary, and quoting reference 44250162068 or Operation Fresca.

Footage or information can also be provided through the police’s dedicated page here.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through its online form here.

PAStan Rickman, 91, and Roma Rickman, 88, died following a fire at their home earlier this week[/caption]