Richmond arson fire leaves 1 woman dead, boy in critical condition

A 66-year-old woman is dead and a 13-year-old boy is in critical condition following an apparent arson fire in Richmond early Monday morning.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team has declared the fire an arson and says it has a suspect in custody in connection with the incident.

Richmond firefighters were called to the home in the 10000 block of Cornerbrook Crescent around 2 a.m. PT Sunday after reports the home was engulfed in flames.

Homicide investigators became involved after Richmond firefighters determined the blaze was suspicious.

There were unconfirmed reports the duplex may have been a group home for children.

MAP: 10000 Cornerbrook Crescent, Richmond, B.C.