Positive Identification Made in Stratford House Fire

Stratford – New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey and Stratford Hollow Fire Chief Charles Stinson III announce that the positive identification of the victim who perished in the fire at 20 Cheever Rd. in Stratford on February 7, 2022 has been determined.

The NH Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the victim as 84-year-old George South of Stratford, NH and has ruled the cause of death to be smoke inhalation and the manner of death to be pending further investigation. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time.

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.