Investigation into Cranston house fire shows evidence of arson, suicide
CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — Officials said the preliminary investigation into a death at a Cranston house fire late Monday night revealed evidence of arson and suicide.
Police announced Tuesday evening it was believed an 80-year-old man intentionally started a fire in the house on Beckwith Street before taking his own life in a detached garage.
A joint investigation is underway into the suspected arson and apparent suicide, according to authorities.
Crews responded to the scene at 11:32 p.m. on Monday after several calls of house fire at a single-family residence.
Authorities said one neighbor reported hearing what sounded like a single gunshot before smelling smoke and learning the house next door was on fire.
Responding officers found an elderly man inside the garage suffering from a single gunshot wound with a firearm nearby.
The man was transported to Rhode Island Hospital and was pronounced dead a short time later, per officials.
After the fire was extinguished, investigators discovered the home was barricaded and identified multiple points of origin where the fire started.
A search of the property failed to reveal anyone else inside, and police said they were told the man was living alone in the house.
Authorities said the cause of death will be officially determined by the State Medical Examiner.
No other injuries were reported in the incident.
The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing an urgent behavioral health crisis by dialing or texting 988.
