The fire ravaged building where teenager Leah Casson lost her life needs to be made safe before police can continue their investigations.
A body, believed to be that of the 18-year-old was found after a fierce blaze took hold of her North Shields home, on Monday morning.
Police are treating the fire, on Vicarage Street on Monday morning, as a suspected arson attack.
But investigations into the blaze cannot fully continue until the building has been made safe.
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: "Our investigation into the tragic death of 18-year-old Leah Casson remains ongoing.
“At this time, efforts are ongoing to ensure the property remains safe for investigators to continue their forensic enquiries and help establish the cause of the fire.
“As always, if anyone thinks they can aid our investigation, they should contact us ."
Today a huge crane with a platform on top could be seen working at the property.
A police car remained outside.
Emergency services were called to Vicarage Street at just before 3.30am on Monday.
Three people, who the Chronicle understands to be members of Leah's family, managed to escape the property, but the body of a fourth person was found inside.
While formal identification is yet to take place, officers believe it was Leah who lost her life.
In a statement her family said: "As a family we are totally devastated by what has happened. Leah was an outgoing, bubbly young woman who we loved so much, and we can’t believe she has gone.
Anyone with information is asked to call Northumbria Police on 101 quoting log NP-20230116-0067.
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