Woman's death case referred up after police probe

An investigation into the death of woman in a house fire has been referred up after a previous police probe.

Izabela Chalastra, 46, died in hospital six days after the blaze in Nottingham on 1 March 2024.

The inquest heard there had been a "history of domestic abuse" and Zbigniew Lewandowski - who was under a protection order at the time - visited the address but denied entering the property. He was arrested in connection with the fire, and later detained on suspicion of murder but no charges were brought due to "insufficient evidence".

Nottinghamshire Police said it had asked the East Midlands Regional Review Unit to conduct an independent review, a "normal practice in major investigations".

The force added this decision was "notwithstanding the thorough investigation already undertaken", and said the it would reflect on any recommendations made.

A coroner, who delivered her findings earlier this year, left the inquest into Izabela's death open - and said she could not rule out "deliberate ignition" at the property.

Chalastra's sister, Krystyna Chalastra, told the BBC: "I'm struggling to write anything because of the pain inside of me and it frightens me to think I'd have to go through it all again. I only want and ask for justice."

The East Midlands Regional Review Unit, which is part of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, looks at major inquiries, critical incidents and other identified investigations.

Supt Matt Croome, from Nottinghamshire Police, said: "Firstly, our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Izabela Chalastra following her tragic death.

"We acknowledge the coroner's conclusion and have reviewed the points highlighted at the inquest. We have not identified any criminal offences.

"We will also be contacting the East Midlands Regional Review Unit so they can conduct an independent review and determine whether any further reasonable lines of inquiry could establish the cause of the fire that led to Izabela's death.

"This recommendation is made notwithstanding the thorough investigation already undertaken.

"We have met the family to discuss the review."

Back in June, Krystyna Chalastra had sat through two days of evidence at the inquest and told the BBC she was left with "no answers" but that she felt "lighter".

"I'm still very sad that I didn't get what I expected to get," she said.

"I expected something completely different. It's very difficult for me to talk about it."

She said she was "glad" that the coroner did not rule out deliberate ignition as a possible cause of the fire.

Speaking via a Polish interpreter, she said: "I feel lighter. After the inquest, I had the chance to think about it, and I realise now I have to turn my attention to myself and have to look after my health.

"Now Iza is safe, she is on the other side with my parents, and I'm going to leave her alone over there."

She also thanked all the agencies who contributed with evidence at the inquest.

Chalastra's death also prompted a domestic homicide review, led by Carol Ellwood-Clarke. The report of its findings is due to be released later this year.

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