Linesville Family Struck by Tragedy

NOVEMBER 27, 2012- On the heels of a fire that took the life of a 16-year-old boy, a Linesville family has been struck by another tragedy.

    It was November 16th when 16 year-old Zachary Baker was killed by a fire.

    A week later the baker family had to deal with another fire.

    This time it was arson.

    The first fire ripped through the Baker's home early Friday morning on November 16^th causing total destruction.

    Baker was trapped inside of the home.

    Family members attempted to pull him out, but had no success.

    Zachary died from asphyxiation, as the co2 levels were too high.

    Investigators say a faulty baseboard heater was the cause.

    The family was displaced, forced to move in with relatives into a home located on the same property as the first fire.

    Then, on November 23rd around 11 p.m. another fire struck.

    Family members say tensions had been high and the grief of Zachary's death had become overwhelming. 

      A younger family member attempted to light a mattress on fire.

    Investigators say this younger family member tried to start 3 separate fires three in that home.

    No charges are being filed against him.

    The Baker family did not have insurance on their home.

    They lost everything.

    If you want to help, you can make donations to the First Baptist Church in Linesville.

    They can be reached at 814-683-5244.