UPDATE: One person dead after house fire in Finley, victim identified

By on Wednesday, July 17th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

UPDATE: The victim has been identified as Evelyn Craig, 65. Benton County Coroner William Leach said Craig’s death was caused by smoke inhalation and combustion byproducts inhalation. Her death was ruled an accident.

Leach added Craig’s caregiver/friend was the person who reported the fire. The caregiver reportedly attempted to get to Craig but was driven back by the smoke and heat.

Original post:

FINLEY – One person has died after a fire destroyed a home Wednesday morning in Finley.

Benton County Fire District No. 1 responded before 6 a.m. to the area of East Finley Road and East 403 Private Road Southeast.

Two people were inside the home when the fire started, however, one person was not able to evacuate and is suspected to have died in the fire.

Benton County Fire District No. 1 said that no additional information will be released out of respect for the family.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photo via Benton County Fire District No. 1