Early Sunday, Dec. 7, a fire broke out in Elrod that claimed the lives of two people, according to Sgt. Noel Houze, Indiana State Police Versailles District public information officer.

Milan volunteer firefighters were dispatched to a fire with entrapment at 5636 E. U.S. 50 in Elrod, located on the eastern edge of Ripley County, at about 6:47 a.m. They arrived about 20 minutes later and found the home fully involved. “Firefighters had the fire under control in less than 30 minutes and completely extinguished it within one hour,” he said. They believe it had been burning for some time before it was reported.

After extinguishing it, firefighters discovered two bodies. The victims were pronounced dead at the scene by Ripley County deputy coroner Jeff Thielking, the Batesville Police Department assistant chief. Autopsies Monday at Dearborn County Hospital, Lawrenceburg, identified the victims as George Andrew, 85, and his wife, Belva Andrew, 80. Preliminary results indicated both victims died of smoke inhalation.

“Investigators from the Milan Volunteer Fire Department, Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office and Indiana State Police have ruled out arson and believe the fire originated at or near a wood furnace located in the basement of the residence,” Houze said. According to investigators, it appeared there were numerous combustible materials near the wood stove. That is likely what ignited the deadly fire.

Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Skaggs commented, "People should make sure they do not store or leave combustible materials near wood stoves, fireplaces or other areas where open flame is present."

The Ripley County Coroner’s Office is helping with the investigation as well. Also at the scene were the Dillsboro and Versailles volunteer fire departments; Ripley County Sheriff’s Office; Milan Rescue 30; Rescue 69; Ripley County Medic; and Indiana Department of Transportation.