A local man is dead after a Christmas day fire in a house on Pauline Avenue in the west end.

Firefighters were called to the neighbourhood, just west of the Hanlon Expressway and south of Speedvale Avenue, around 10:40 p.m. on Tuesday Dec. 25.

They arrived to find the house engulfed in flames and heavy smoke, a news release said.

A 72-year-old man was found inside the home and was taken to Guelph General Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries, it said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, and police would like to speak to anyone who may have information that could help with the investigation, the release said.

Those with information are asked to contact Const. Chris Probst at 519-824-1212, ext. 342.