A third person has been confirmed deceased after a body was found in a burnt-out building north of Taree this afternoon.

The body was found after fires swept through the township of Johns River, 40km north, earlier this afternoon (Saturday 9 November 2019).

The burnt out home belongs to a woman aged 63; however, a post-mortem examination will be required to confirm identity and cause of death.

Officers from Manning Great Lakes Police District are speaking with the woman’s family, and have initiated inquiries.

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.