New York State Police are investigating a fatal house fire that occurred on March 13 on Banaut Road in the Town of Fremont, Sullivan County.
According to state police, troopers from the Narrowsburg barracks responded to reports of a structure fire at approximately 5:31 p.m.
A passerby first alerted emergency services after spotting the residence on fire. The individual attempted to approach the home but was forced to retreat due to the intense heat. Nearby residents also called 911.
Multiple fire departments responded to the scene, including the Callicoon Fire District, Jeffersonville Fire Department, Roscoe Rockland Fire Station, Callicoon Center Firehouse, Hortonville Fire Company, North Branch Volunteer Fire Company, Hankins Fire Department and the Sullivan County Fire Department.
When troopers arrived, they were informed that a resident might still be inside the single-family home. After firefighters extinguished the blaze, responders discovered a deceased man inside.
Authorities identified the victim as Dennis R. Banaut, 77, of Roscoe.
Preliminary findings indicate the fire may have started near a wood-burning stove. Investigators say there is currently no evidence of criminal activity.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials await the results of a final fire analysis.
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