Firefighters were called by the ambulance service to a property in West Auckland on Monday (January 6) at around 10.44am, following reports of a kitchen fire.
Two fire engines from Bishop Auckland arrived at the scene and confirmed the fire was out.
Emergency services confirmed on Friday (January 10) that a man in his 90s was pronounced dead at the scene by the ambulance service.
Following a joint investigation between the fire service and Durham Police, it is believed the cause of the fire was an unattended chip pan.
A resident who lives nearby, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “I’m really sad for the family.
“It’s just awful. It was very busy when it happened with police cars and fire engines.”
Durham Police have said a report will be submitted to the coroner.
Group Manager of the fire service, Chris Williams, has paid tribute to the man and highlighted the dangers of kitchen fires.
He said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family following this devastating incident.
“At tragic times like this, we are reminded of the dangers of fire and the reality that fire kills.
“Nothing matters more to us than the safety of those who live in our communities, and we would like to appeal to every household to make sure you have working smoke alarms.
“Please ensure you are checking your smoke alarms weekly and give us a call if you don’t have a smoke alarm.
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“Our firefighters can fit them for you as part of our free Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV).”
He added: “We ask that you all please reach out to your neighbours – particularly those who are older and living alone – and offer to test their smoke alarms or help arrange a HFSV from their local fire crews.”
The fire service said that its firefighters from Bishop Auckland will be working in the area to offer reassurance to residents and provide home fire safety advice.