Authorities have identified the man who died following a house fire in Wilkes-Barre last weekend.
Luzerne County Coroner Dion Fernandes confirmed that 63-year-old Michael Barnes Died when a fire broke out Saturday evening at a home on Columbus Avenue. Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene around 7:30 p.m.
An autopsy conducted Tuesday determined that Barnes died from smoke inhalation. The coroner ruled the manner of death accidental.
The fire prompted a three-alarm response, bringing assistance from Wilkes-Barre city firefighters along with crews from the Kingston/Forty Fort Fire Department and the Hanover Township Fire Department. Officials said the home sustained severe damage in the blaze.
Authorities also confirmed that two pets were lost in the fire. No additional injuries have been reported.
Fire officials are continuing to investigate the cause of the blaze. At this time, no further details have been released regarding how the fire started.
Community members have expressed sympathy for the family affected by the tragedy, as neighbors reflect on the impact of the incident. Local officials are reminding residents of the importance of working smoke detectors and fire safety planning in the home.
Investigators are expected to provide updates once the cause of the fire has been determined. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact local authorities.
As the investigation continues, many are left wondering what led to the devastating fire and whether additional safety measures could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
