An investigation is underway into a fire at a retirement village on Sydney's northern beaches which has claimed the life of an elderly man.
Firefighters had to break down the door to gain access to the unit on Endeavour Drive at Collaroy, after a witness who saw smoke called triple-0 last night.
The 19-year-old had tried to gain access but the doors and windows were locked.
Inside firefighters found a 64-year-old man in the bedroom suffering serious burns - he was taken to Royal North Shore hospital but died a short time later.
Police are now investigating the blaze but have ruled it not suspicious - it's believed the man may have been smoking in bed.