Man Perishes in Stratford House Fire

Stratford – New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey and Stratford Hollow Fire Chief Charles Stinson
III announce that on February 7, 2022 at approximately 4:15 PM a call was received for a reported structure fire in a
mobile home located at 20 Cheever Rd. Stratford Hollow Fire Department responded to the scene and encountered a
dwelling with heavy smoke and fire conditions. Mutual aid was provided by Groveton Fire Department, Lancaster
Fire Department, Colebrook Fire Department and Groveton Ambulance Service. Station coverage was provided by
the Stark Fire Department.

One adult female victim was rescued from the home by bystanders. She was transported to Weeks Memorial
Hospital and later transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital. During suppression efforts, an adult male victim
was located in the residence, deceased.

The NH Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy on February 8, 2022. At this time, the deceased victim
has not been positively identified. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey would like to remind all citizens of the importance of having working smoke
alarms in your home. In the event of a fire, immediately exit your home and call 9-1-1. Keep exits clear of debris
and have a home fire escape plan. Have your heating systems inspected and maintained on an annual basis and keep
at least a three to five-foot clearance around any heating appliance from combustible materials. If you have any
questions about fire safety in your home, please contact your local fire department or the NH State Fire Marshal’s
Office.

Any further inquiries can be directed to the NH State Fire Marshal’s Office at (603) 223-4289.