Vernon Man Killed Himself Before Fire Wrecked Home: Medical Examiner

VERNON, CT — A Vernon man killed himself before his home was ravaged by fire late Sunday night, according to records from both the Connecticut Chief Medical Examiner and Vernon police.

The fire broke out at 144 Hany Lane at 11:20 p.m. Sunday and by Monday morning, the smell of smoke was still prevalent in the area, the home — especially the garage — was in ruins and a melted car sat in the driveway. It was difficult to assess the damage from the street because the house is surrounded by trees and thick brush.

A resident of the home identified by Vernon police as 66-year-old Joel Kerr, was found dead inside the dwelling, Vernon police said. The medical examiner's office Tuesday said he died from "suicide" after sustaining "a shotgun wound to the head."

State and local fire marshals were at the scene investigating Monday, as well as detectives who could be seen sifting through the rubble inside the garage. They were back at it Tuesday.

It took some time for the fire to be put out, officials at the scene said. When asked Tuesday if Kerr set the fire, police referred to the ongoing investigation. Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call them at 860-872-9126.