While investigators were at the scene, a second fire was reported a few blocks away, where authorities found “three people deceased inside that residence,” Bolduc said.
“Fire crews have worked diligently to extinguish the fire but also to preserve items that may be inside the home,” Bolduc said. “Our investigators are currently processing this second scene.”
The deaths were suspicious, according to Bolduc.
“Shortly after the second fire was reported, law enforcement received a report that a silver sedan had been seen leaving the town of Laurel,” he said. “This vehicle was reported westbound on Highway 20,” Bolduc said. It was reportedly driven by a man. The report also said the vehicle may have picked up a passenger before leaving the city.
Fire investigators believe accelerants may have been used in both fires and anyone inside the home may have been burned.
“Therefore, it is possible that our suspect or suspects sustained burn injuries during these incidents,” Bolduc said.
Authorities are asking anyone with information or video to contact them.
No cause or motive has been determined at this time, Bolduc said. No information was given on the casualties.
James Roberts, who has owned Laurel’s Hometown Market for more than a year, said news of the deaths had shocked the small town.
“Things like this don’t happen in this town,” Roberts said. “Everybody here knows everybody.”
He said the grocery store has delivered food to state troopers and firefighters who responded to the scene and are at a nearby church. Staff were stocking up on hamburgers and sandwiches, including sloppy joes and some water to show their support.
Roberts predicted the city would bounce back from the tragedy. “It’s a close-knit town. Everyone here is family.”
Laurel has a population of about 1,000 and is located in Cedar County in the northeastern part of the state.
