CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Chillicothe Police Department has released new details about a fire that engulfed a duplex on the city’s east side, claiming the life of a resident.
On February 3rd, officers and firefighters responded to reports of a fire at 235 Scioto Street. Upon arrival, first responders found the structure ablaze. Initial concerns were raised for the safety of one resident, 69-year-old Connie Burchwell, who lived in the other half of the duplex. Unfortunately, despite efforts to locate her, Ms. Burchwell was later found deceased within the residence.
“Due to the intense flames, a safe entry attempt was impossible initially,” officers said in their report.
Per the report, once the fire was under control, a search revealed Ms. Burchwell in the lower level.
Ms. Burchwell’s body was transported to the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office for further investigation. While foul play is not suspected at this time, the official cause of the fire remains under investigation.