Kyoto, Japan—Two people died Wednesday in a house fire that engulfed their residence in the early morning. Firefighters were alerted to the blaze by neighbors who noticed smoke rising from the property. The fire spread rapidly through the wooden structure.

The local fire department dispatched several engines to the scene. Despite their efforts, the house was heavily damaged by the time the flames were suppressed. Rescuers discovered two bodies in the debris shortly after entering the structure.

Investigators from the Kyoto police and fire departments concluded that an electrical short was the cause of the fire. The short occurred in a high-load appliance outlet in the living room. The resulting sparks quickly ignited nearby flammable materials.

The victims were identified as the sole residents of the home. Their identities are being kept private while family members are contacted. The incident has left the local community in mourning. Neighbors described the residents as a quiet couple who had lived there for many years.

Fire officials are using this incident to issue a public warning about electrical safety. They recommend that homeowners check for frayed wiring and avoid overloading power strips during the summer season. The age of the residence may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

Local authorities have offered emergency counseling to the neighbors who witnessed the blaze. The residential area remains quiet as police continue to secure the scene. A final report on the incident will be filed with the municipal office by the end of the week.

The destruction of the home is total. The area will be cleared by demolition crews once the forensic investigation concludes. No other properties were damaged in the incident.