MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The state Fire Marshal’s office has assumed the lead in the investigation into a deadly New Year’s Day fire in Monongalia County.
Sharon Hartley was killed in the blaze early Friday morning at her home on Rumbling Lane, about 30 mintues south of Morgantown. Her husband, Rodney Hartley, was taken to Ruby Memorial Hospital for treatement.
The fire appears to have been accidental, the result of fireworks set off to celebrate the new year. An ember from one of the fireworks reportedly landed on an ATV parked near the house, which caught fire with the flames ultimately spreading to the home.
Triune Halleck Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene.
The home is a total loss.