Associated Press Published

Officials Say Recent String of Fires Claim 6 Lives in State

WV Fire Marshal

Officials say five fires have claimed six lives in West Virginia since Friday.

Local media outlets report the most recent fire happened Wednesday morning at a home in Harrisville.

Lawrence Messina, spokesman for the Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety, says a 97-year-old woman died in the blaze.

Messina says the fire is believed to be accidental and cooking related.

Messina says the number of fatal fires in a short period of time is concerning.

Although the state fire marshal’s office has public awareness campaigns throughout the year on fire safety, Messina says the office has hired additional public education staff after this string of fatal fires.

Messina stresses the importance of taking the time to check smoke detectors and ensure each home has the proper amount.