An 81-year-old woman has been found dead at her home in Tarxien after a fire broke out. 

Lonza Busuttil died in the fire on Monday morning that also claimed the life of her dog, according to a neighbour who said the scene was “horrific”.

The neighbour said they saw the fire at around 7am on Triq Betta,

“By then it had already spread across the entire house," the neighbour said.

"Two fire engines and the police arrived. It was a horrific scene. Thankfully, her son – who lives with her – had left for work before the fire broke out."

The neighbour said the family have ended up with "nothing". 

“ This is why we are collecting funds to help them. They lost everything. We are receiving a lot of donations already,” the neighbour added.  

Earlier a police spokesperson said police officers were called on site at 6.25am on Monday, while members of the Civil Protection Department and a medical team also rushed to the house.

The woman was certified dead on site. A magisterial inquiry has been launched.