wildfire
Firefighters battle a fast-moving wildfire that destroyed homes driven by strong wind and high temperatures forcing thousands of residents to evacuate in Goleta, California, U.S., July 7, 2018. REUTERS/Gene Blevins

Two people died in a house fire that was caused when a “lit cigarette was dropped on a carpet.” The incident took place in Derbyshire, England, on Wednesday.

Firefighters arrived at the scene after receiving calls from the neighbors. The firefighters entered the home and found the bodies of a man and a woman, whose names were not revealed.

Confirming the incident, Lee Smith with the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service Lee Smith said, "This is a tragic accident that has sadly led to the death of two people and our thoughts and sympathy go to the family and friends of the deceased at this distressing time.”

"The fire service responded to the incident following a police request to attend as they had discovered that there had been a fire in the living room and smoke damage throughout the rest of the property. A joint police and fire investigation has concluded that the most probable cause of the fire was accidental due to smoking materials,” he added.

Meanwhile, a resident of the area said, "The theory is that a cigarette was dropped on the carpet and started a fire which they tried to put out but got overcome by fumes. It's really tragic, especially at this time of year."

Calling the couple "nice people," a neighbor said, “I just can’t believe they’ve gone. They were lovely, kind and generous. They would do anything for anyone. They wouldn’t harm a fly, they were such nice people, always saying hello."