Iowa Department of Public Safety
Eugene T. Meyer, Commissioner
215 East 7th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Telephone Number: (515) 725-6182
Facsimile Number: (515) 725-6195

James F. Kenkel, Director

SHENANDOAH FIRE OVER WEEKEND RULED ACCIDENTAL

Shenandoah, IOWA --- On Sunday, November 1, 2009, a house fire at 1938 C Avenue in Shenandoah claimed the life of 65 year old Karen Kay Beecher. Ms. Beecher, the sole occupant of the house, called 911, but was apparently overcome by smoke and unable to get out of the house. There was a single smoke detector found in the hallway outside Ms. Beecher's bedroom, but the detector did not have a battery in it.

A Special Agent with the State Fire Marshal Division has ruled the fire accidental. It appears the fire started when an electrical short ignited an under-cupboard electric can opener.

The State Medical Examiner has determined that smoke inhalation was the cause of death. Karen Beecher's death brings the total number of Iowa fire fatalities for the 2009 calendar year to 40.

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