A HOUSE fire which killed three people was started after the gas supply was tampered with, police believe.

The bodies of architect Hassan Rafie, 49, and his law student wife, Mahnaz, 48, were discovered in the blaze at the family home in Bolton, Greater Manchester, in the early hours of Monday.

Post-mortem examinations showed Mrs Rafie died from stab wounds and Mr Rafie from smoke inhalation and burns.

Mrs Rafie's mother, Dolleh Joseph, 74, was rescued by firefighters from an upstairs bedroom but died soon after in hospital from the effects of smoke inhalation and burns.

In a family tribute, the Rafies' sons, Ommid, a doctor, and Arash, revealed their grandmother had been diagnosed with terminal cancer less than two weeks ago.

Neighbours spoke of hearing an explosion from the kitchen of the semi-detached home in Albert Road West, Heaton, shortly before flames spread throughout the property.

Earlier this week police said they were treating the blaze as suspicious and it is understood one line of inquiry was that Mr Rafie had unlawfully killed his wife before deliberately setting the fire.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Reade, said: "Our thoughts remain with family members who have been devastated by what has happened.

"Specialist officers are keeping them updated with our investigation and continuing to support them as best they can.

The matter has now been passed to the coroner.