By: Laura Soukkavong
New York – Early on February 12, a residential fire broke out in Apartment 3 at 10 Rustic Inn Lane in Yulan, Sullivan County. Authorities received the report at 2:33 a.m.
Troopers from the Liberty barracks and investigators from the Liberty Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrived at the scene, with several local fire departments helping to extinguish the fire.
Authorities found two people deceased inside the first-floor apartment: 65-year-old George L. Argento from Brooklyn and 62-year-old Yerim from Yulan. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Early investigations suggested the fire started in the apartment’s northwest corner. Officials also observed several electric space heaters inside, and the victims were found together in the same room.
Autopsies performed on February 14 at Garnet Health Medical Center – Catskills concluded that the victims died from smoke inhalation and burns. Authorities reported that there is no indication of criminal activity.
Authorities interviewed nearby residents and checked surrounding apartments, but found no evidence of criminal activity. The investigation is continuing, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the New York State Police at SP Liberty.