An elderly man from Wayne City died early Sunday morning after a fire engulfed an upstairs bedroom in his home. The victim, identified as 84-year-old Clarence Bennett of rural Wayne City, was found unresponsive by firefighters.
The fire was reported at 12:07 a.m. at 285 County Road 400 East, just north of Interstate 64. Upon arrival, Wayne City firefighters were informed by neighbors that one or two individuals might be trapped inside. Crews searched the bedrooms above the garage and discovered Bennett. Emergency responders immediately initiated life-saving efforts before transporting him to a hospital in Mount Vernon, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Illinois State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire, though no foul play is suspected. Jefferson County Coroner Roger Hayes stated that an autopsy will be performed to determine the official cause of death.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Young Funeral Home in Wayne City.
Comments