Crews Find Body In Vacant, Burned-Out Home

NEWARK, Ohio—A body was found in a vacant, burned-out home early Monday. Officials ruled the fire as arson and have released the identity of the victim.

NBC 4 reported with the FAST FACTS.

Fire crews were called to a house fire in the 400 block of Mount Vernon Road a little after 3 a.m. Monday.

Newark resident Brian Jonhson was one of the first to see the fire as he drove by the address on his way to the store. Johnson called 911.

“I don’t think I could have done anything different. The house was already consumed with fire, and it looked vacant going up and looking in the window. So, I wouldn’t change anything,“ Johnson sai

The Newark fire department called crime-scene investigators to the address after the body of a victim was found.

The Licking County coroner identified the body as 30-year-old Jared Humble late Monday afternoon.

An autopsy was performed to determine whether Humble was deceased before the fire or because of it. The coroner said Humble died from smoke inhalation.
Division of State Fire Marshal investigators, along with the Newark fire and police, ruled the fatal fire as arson.

Columbus fire also provided assistance to the investigation with an accelerant-detection canine.

Investigators were able to rule out all accidental causes.

Evidence found during the investigation indicates the fire was intentionally set. Specific details about how and where the fire started were not released currently.

Smoke detectors were present but it was unknown if they activated.

Neighbors confirmed the house was vacant for at least a year.

Monday’s fatality marked the state’s 24th for 2009.

A Blue Ribbon Arson Reward of up to $6,000 was posted for anyone with information leading to the identification of the person or persons responsible.

Anyone with information should call the Division of State Fire Marshal at 800-589-2728 or Licking County Crime Stoppers at 888-488-9058.

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