Bungalow Fire Death: Coroner Flags 'Deliberate Ignition'

The inquest into the death of Izabela Chalastra, 46, following a bungalow fire on March 1, 2024, has been left open by the coroner, who has not excluded the possibility of deliberate ignition. Chalastra died in hospital six days after the blaze in Nottingham.

The inquest heard of a history of domestic abuse. Zbigniew Lewandowski, who was under a protection order at the time, visited the address but denied entering the property. He was arrested in connection with the fire and later detained on suspicion of murder, though no charges were brought due to insufficient evidence.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue found severe fire damage, making it impossible to pinpoint a single cause. Potential ignition sources included an electric heater, smoking materials, a candle, and a portable gas stove. Evidence also showed a smoke detector had been covered and indicated unsafe smoking practices.

CCTV footage showed Lewandowski at the property for approximately four minutes shortly before the fire was discovered by a witness. He was later seen on CCTV purchasing a lighter and beer. Chalastra's sister expressed sadness but felt a sense of closure, appreciating the coroner's consideration of deliberate ignition.

A domestic homicide review prompted by Chalastra's death is expected to release its findings later this year. The inquest continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal fire.