Woman Perishes in Building Fire

New Hampshire State Fire Marshal J. William Degnan, Derry Fire Chief Michael Gagnon, and Derry Police Chief Edward Garone, announced on July 17, 2015, that a fire investigation at 157 Bypass 28 in the town of Derry has taken the life of a local woman, according to a press statement.

Arlene M. Evans, 62, of Derry, lost her life during the fire, according to officials.

The Derry Fire Department was dispatched at 10 p.m. for a structure fire with reports where occupants were still inside.

The fire was discovered and reported by another occupant in the unit. Engine 3 from the English Range Road Station was the first to arrive on scene at 10:08 p.m. Upon arrival, responding units observed a heavy smoke condition and located a fire in the area of the second floor bedroom. The Derry Fire Department quickly extinguished the fire and discovered a deceased female occupant on the bedroom floor.

The NH State Medical Examiner’s Office has determined that the cause of death was smoke inhalation and the manner of death was accidental. A male occupant was rescued from the first floor by Derry Fire and Police personnel.

The fire is under investigation by members of the State Fire Marshal’s Office, The Derry Fire Department, and the Derry Police Department. As a result of the Origin & Cause investigation, it was determined that the fire is accidental in nature and occurred as a result of smoking materials in close proximity to medical oxygen. Minimal fire damage was caused to the residence.

Marshal Degnan would like to warn all citizens of the extreme dangers of smoking while using or in close proximity to medical oxygen. Rapid fire development and increased intensity can occur, causing serious injury or death. Smoking is the leading cause of burns, reported fires, deaths, and injuries involving home medical oxygen. Please also take time to ensure you have working smoke alarms in your home and have a home fire escape plan.