One person is found dead amid rubble of Milton fire

MILTON - A fire that broke out Saturday morning on Wiley Road has claimed the life of a Milton resident.

Police and fire got involved around 8:45 a.m. after a 911 call alerted them to a fire at 285 Willey Road. The person who called 911 who had been inside the house when the fire started reported that another occupant was trapped inside, according to a Dept. of Safety release sent Saturday evening.

Responders prepared to enter the fully involved two-story house, but before they could the second floor collapsed rendering the home unsafe to enter.

Fire officials noted that when crews arrived on scene they had difficulty accessing the home because the driveway leading to it had not been cleared of snow. After the fire was extinguished, investigators and fire personnel located a deceased person inside the home. The name of the victim is being withheld pending an autopsy scheduled at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Investigators with the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal's Office have responded to the scene and are leading the investigation into the origin and cause of the fire.

Officials would like to remind everyone that if there is a fire in a home, it is crucial to get out and stay out. Additionally, keep driveways and walkways cleared of snow and ice to allow first responders easy access in case of an emergency.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal's Office at (603) 223-4289 or fmo@dos.nh.gov