Victims of Charlestown house fire identified

CHARLESTOWN - The victims of a Thursday house fire on Crown Point Drive in Charlestown have been identified.

The cause of death of 36-year-old Hope Schraer of Enfield and 38-year-old Allen Ballou of Royalton, Vt., was determined to be smoke inhalation and the manner of death was accidental, according to a statement sent out by the Dept. of Safety on Monday.

The investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is active and ongoing by members of the State Fire Marshal's Office and the Charlestown Fire and Police Departments.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the NH State Fire Marshal's Office at (603) 223-4289 or by email at fmo@dos.nh.gov.

The State Fire Marshal's Office is reminding people of the importance of having working smoke alarms in your home. In the event of an alarm activation or visible smoke or fire, immediately exit your home and call 9-1-1. Keep exits clear and accessible at all times and have a home fire escape plan. If you have any questions about fire safety in your home, please contact your local fire department or the NH State Fire Marshal's Office