Vermont State Police On 04/23/19, the Tunbridge Fire Department and Vermont State Police responded to a Tunbridge address (see below) for a reported house fire. This fire was reported by someone seeing a large glow in the sky and placing a 911 call. The FD was alerted and responded to the area and were unable to find the fire for approximately 45 minutes. The home was behind a locked gate and a very long driveway which secluded the home from the roadway. Once the FD was able to get to the home it was found totally engulfed in flames along with a nearby garage. Also found were three out buildings that had been apparently burglarized as they had been forced open. South Royalton FD was also asked to assist at the scene.
Troopers from the Royalton Barracks responded immediately to secure the scene as the Fire Chief had contacted the Vermont Department of Public Safety Fire and Explosions Unit and requested assistance with determining the origin and cause of this fire. The members of the Fire and Explosions Unit responded to the scene in the morning at approximately 0700 hrs to initiate an Origin/Cause investigation. The house and garage are considered to be a total loss and estimated value of $250,000.00.
Based on the investigation this fire is considered suspicious. This fire is classified as UNDETERMINED at this time.
Several leads are being followed up on at this time. Anyone who may have seen individuals walking or on ATVS in this area asked to call in with any info.
Anyone with any further information on the fire is asked to contact Det. Sgt. Steven Otis at the Westminster Barracks or call the Arson Tip Award Line at 1-800- ARSON. If information is provided that leads to an arrest, up to $5000.00 could be awarded.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY FIRE INVESTIGATION UNIT
VERMONT STATE POLICE – WESTMINSTER BARRACKS
INVESTIGATORS: Detective Sergeant Steven Otis, Detective Sergeant Matt Hill, Detective Sergeant Tom Williams from VSP and DFS Fire Investigator Tim Angell
STATION: Westminster
CONTACT# 802-722-4600
DATE/TIME: 04/23/19 @ approximately 0345 hrs.
INCIDENT LOCATION: 908 Gage Hill Road, Tunbridge, VT
INCIDENT: Suspicious House Fire
VICTIM: Estate of Alice Smith
CITY, STATE OF RESIDENCE: NA