THE heartbroken family of a woman who was murdered this week in Gosport have paid tribute to her.

Kelly Case, 27, was found by firefighters after a fire at her home on Grange Crescent on July 30.

Yesterday, Kelly's family said: “Kelly was lively and vibrant and we’ve lost our best friend.

“She was a daughter, mother, sister and auntie and we are thinking of her.

“Please respect our privacy at this difficult time.”

Four people have since been arrested on suspicion of murder.

A 28-year-old man from Gosport and a 32-year-old man from Gosport were arrested yesterday and a 26-year-old man of no fixed abode and a 28-year-old man from also Gosport were arrested earlier this week.

All four men remain in custody.

It comes after emergency services, including Hampshire Constabulary and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, were called to a terraced property at Grange Crescent, Gosport, shortly after 8.30am on Tuesday.

Three crews from Gosport and Fareham fire stations were called to Grange Crescent.

They were soon joined by police and members of South Central Ambulance Service, which sent two rapid response vehicles.

The scene of the blaze, initially described as a "small kitchen fire". was cordoned off as police launched an investigation into the woman's death.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Scrase said:

“As our investigation develops, we are still seeking as much information from the public as possible.

“Perhaps you were in the area of Grange Crescent early on Tuesday morning and saw someone acting suspiciously.

“If you have any information that can help our investigation, please call us on 101 quoting 44190267652.

“Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“There will be an ongoing police presence in the Gosport area – we thank local residents for their continued patience.”