Smoke Inhalation Death in Northumberland

Northumberland – New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey, Northumberland Police Chief Peter Pelletier, and Groveton Fire Chief Terrence Bedell announce that on December 16, 2021 at 1015 hours, a call was received for a welfare check at 192 Lancaster Rd in Northumberland. Members from the Groveton Police Department and Groveton Ambulance responded for an untimely death. When they arrived on scene, they observed the home’s surfaces to be soot-covered, without active fire, and no smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) alarms sounding. Further investigation revealed no carbon monoxide (CO) alarms were present in the home.

An autopsy was conducted on December 17, 2021, by Dr. Jennie Duval, Medical Examiner, who identified the deceased as 70-year-old Brian Connor of Northumberland. The cause of his death is smoke inhalation and the manner of his death was undetermined.

State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey wants to remind everyone of the importance of having working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home and to know the signs of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is known as the silent killer. Signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning may include dull headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea and/or vomiting, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision or loss of consciousness. If you experience any of these symptoms, get to fresh air and call E911 immediately.

If you have any questions about your home’s smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, please contact your local fire department or the NH State Fire Marshal’s Office.

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