93-Year-Old Man Dies In Maine House Fire

UPDATE: The State Fire Marshal's Office says Tuesday's fire death in Ellsworth took place when the victim's clothing caught fire inside his home. Investigators say Roice Saunder's clothing caught fire as he was boiling water on his gas stove in the kitchen. His body was found about six feet away in the living room and investigators say he likely was attempting to reach the phone to call for help when he was overcome. Fire Marshals say this was the fourth fire death, so far this year. 

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a fatal fire in Ellsworth. An elderly man was found dead inside his home on the Surry Road just before 11 am.

Fire damage was confined to the living room of the 166-year-old clapboard house at 344 Surry Road, the room where the body of 93-year-old Roice Saunders was found by firefighters. The home is owned by Roice Saunders and by Joyce Mitchell, a family member.

Sgt. Scott Richardson of the Maine State Fire Marshall's Office says the fire was reported by a passerby.

The Ellsworth American posted video with Richardson just before Saunders' name was released.

A team of state fire investigators are now attempting to determine the cause of the fire.

Roice Saunders' family has been notified of his death.