The New Hampshire Fire Marshal’s office posted this on their Facebook page on Friday afternoon:
New Hampshire State Fire Marshal J. William Degnan, Andover Fire Chief Rene Lefebvre, and Andover Police Chief Glenn Laramie announce that the victim of the outdoor fire that occurred on January 7, 2016 has been identified.
The fire occurred outside a residence at 189 Kearsarge Mountain Road. The victim was the owner of the property, Donald Gross, age 65, of Andover. The cause of death was determined to be accidental, due to smoke inhalation.
The cause of the fire was accidental in nature and included the use of ignitable liquids in close proximity to open flame.
State Fire Marshal Degnan wants to remind everyone that gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids should never be used to start a brush fire. Do not allow small children to participate or stand nearby when lighting a brush fire. Stay with and monitor all outdoor fires until they are completely out.
Any further inquiries can be directed to the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office, Bureau of Investigations, Investigator Adam Fanjoy or District Chief Danielle Cole, at 223-4289.
The reaction of the community has been one of anguish and shock, as seen in comments on the Andover Emergency Services Facebook page; in this story from the Union Leader; and in this story from WMUR.
Don was a very important member of our community and touched many of our lives. If you’d like to share a remembrance or tribute, please send it to Charlie@nullAndoverBeacon.com so we can publish it on the Beacon’s Web site and in the February issue.