Police seek reclusive house fire owner

Police and Rural Fire Service at the scene of house fire in Okahutiria Rd, Waverley.

Mystery surrounds the disappearance of a man, described as a recluse, following a house fire in a remote part of Waverley.

Police say the remains found in the ashes of Monday's fire on Okahutiria Rd, Waverley, were that of a dog, and not human remains as police first reported.

The hunt for the home's missing owner - identified by a neighbour as Kerry Anthony Riley - is now on.

"Police ask that the occupant of the property please make themselves known to police so we can ensure they are safe," Detective Sergeant Philip Skoglund said.

Mr Riley was last seen by neighbour Sharon De Melo over a year ago. She described Mr Riley as reclusive and a person who kept to himself.

Police forensic experts spent yesterday sifting through the ashes of the fire.

"Police can confirm that the remains of a dog of an unknown breed were found following a fire at a property on Okahutiria Rd, Waverley," Mr Skoglund said.

"The fire was intense. The assistance of a vet was requested to confirm the remains were that of an animal."

The cause of the fire remains unexplained, he said.

A search of the bush area surrounding the property where the fire happened was also carried out.

"Police have not yet located the occupant of the dwelling."