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Fatal Fire Investigation

10/27/2023

On 10/25/2023, at approximately 2PM, the Lead Hill and Diamond City Fire Department responded to a call of a structure fire located on Hwy 14 just west of Lead Hill.  Caller stated their father was still inside and they could not get in to help him get out.  Boone County Sheriff's Department responded to the fire scene as well to discover 83 year old, Emmett "Jerry" Taylor had succumbed to the smoke and flames.  Investigators examined the cause of the fire and determined the fire appeared to be accidental due to apparent faulty wiring which was found.  The exact cause of death will be determined.  However, no foul play is suspected at this time.