LANCASTER, OH – The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Greenfield Township Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal’s Office, is actively investigating a deadly house fire that claimed two lives in the early hours of March 8, 2025.
Emergency crews were dispatched around 6:53 a.m. to a residence at 2445 Columbus-Lancaster Road in the Colonial Estates neighborhood following reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, firefighters found the home fully engulfed in flames.
Despite efforts to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading, two individuals were found inside the home and transported to Fairfield Medical Center, where they were later pronounced deceased. Authorities have identified the victims as 81-year-old Jaunita L. Shaeffer and 56-year-old Michael R. Shaeffer.
The Ohio Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire, though officials have stated that no foul play is suspected at this time. Authorities continue to work diligently to determine the origin of the blaze.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic incident,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Anyone with information regarding the fire is encouraged to contact the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation continues.
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