Man dies in fire

A 79-year-old man who lived on his own died in a fire at his home in Valletta yesterday morning.

Karmenu Spiteri's body was found in a sitting position on the floor of his sparsely furnished apartment with a torch in his hand. Sources close to the police said it was likely the fire was started by an electric heater Mr Spiteri kept near his bed.

The police said they were informed of the fire shortly after 7 a.m. Firemen were called in to control the blaze but it was too late - Mr Spiteri was certified dead on the spot.

His apartment is situated in Garmine Flats, Carmel Street.

Neighbours and family members said he had lived in Australia for some time, returning to Malta a few years ago to take up residence in Valletta.

His brother-in-law died last Saturday.

Mr Spiteri was described as a very quiet man who liked to be on his own. He had never married and there was very little furniture in his flat. He had no telephone or television set, nor even a wardrobe.

Family members and parish priest Fr Saviour Grima were on the scene of the fire.

Valletta district police are investigating.