An investigation is underway after a person was found dead inside a burning house in western Birmingham.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service and Birmingham police responded about 12:15 p.m. Monday to a blaze in the 4300 block of Willard Avenue S.W.

Once the fire was extinguished, a victim was found dead inside.

Police officials say the death is being investigated as a homicide.

Gunshots were reportedly heard shortly before the fire was reported.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.