State fire investigators are examining multiple fatal fires and an explosion that resulted in four deaths across West Virginia recently, according to the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
A person died in a house fire in Prosperity, Raleigh County. The home on Vireo Lane burned on Saturday afternoon, resulting in the death of a 77-year-old female. Due to extensive damage to the home, the cause of the fire remains undetermined.
On Sunday, a home exploded in Clarksburg, Harrison County, around 3 p.m. Located on Kramer Drive, the explosion led to the rescue of one male who was taken to the hospital and later died overnight. Authorities evacuated a five-block radius surrounding the area due to the explosion. The State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Clarksburg Fire Department are collaborating to determine the cause.
Later Sunday, a fatal fire occurred outside Parkersburg. A 65-year-old female lost her life in the fire, which took place around 6:30 p.m. on Hill Street. Investigators have classified the fire’s cause as undetermined but believe it to be accidental.
A fatal fire occurred in the Prenter area of Boone County Monday morning, on Prenter Road in Seth around 6:45 a.m. The victim’s age and gender are not yet known as investigators continue their work at the scene.
All victims have been taken to the West Virginia State Medical Examiner’s Office for positive identification and autopsy.
