A FAMILY has paid tribute to a couple who were tragically killed in a flat fire.

Michelle Harrison, 38, and Catalyn Isari, 28, who had been together for a number of years, died back in December 2017 at a flat in Smith Crescent, Rastrick. An inquest into their deaths at Bradford Coroner’s Court heard both had been out socialising on the night of Friday, December 15, Mr Isari on his work’s Christmas night out and Ms Harrison with family and then a friend, before returning home.

The inquest, which was attended by members of Ms Harrison’s family, was told that the couple’s neighbour had heard the smoke alarm sounding at around 3am in the morning.

She went out to have a look, but did not see anything untoward to prompt her to raise the alarm with the emergency services.

This was also the case for other neighbours, which meant the first contact to emergency services was not until the evening of December 18, when family were concerned they had not been able to get in contact with the couple.

Jordan Roebuck, the partner of Ms Harrison’s sister, told the inquest that he called the police at 6.15pm and there was an immediate response.

While there, he said the situation had become more worrying as they heard Mr Isari had not been at work that day, which was unlike him. A joiner was then called so access could be gained to the flat and a police officer was able to make his way in, where Ms Harrison was found in the bedroom and Mr Isari was found in the living room. The officer attempted CPR in case Ms Harrison was unconscious, but nothing further could be done. He could not find a pulse for Mr Insari and there were no signs of breathing. They were both pronounced dead at the scene by ambulance staff.

DC Graham Bennett led the police investigation and told the inquest there was no third party involvement. Fire Investigation Officer Jamie Lister said the smouldering fire had started in the bedroom and there was an ashtray with cigarette ends close to the centre of the fire. He said there was nothing to suggest it could have been electrical appliances.

The pathologist concluded both died from smoke inhalation. Bradford Coroner Martin Fleming pointed to fatal levels of carbon monoxide consistent with a lit and discarded cigarette. He said the couple were overcome by the carbon monoxide, preventing them from taking evasive action, and they, more likely than not, died accidental deaths.

Ms Harrison’s mum, Glenise Tattersley said after the inquest: “Michelle’s infectious personality, love and laughter and unforgettable memories remain with us all - I will always love you my darling daughter.” Her sister Alana added: “Always missing you, my best friend, my sister.”