LOST CREEK, W.Va. — Harrison County Sheriff Robert Matheny said the investigation into an apparent murder-arson is his department’s top priority.
Matheny detailed the progress and path of their probe during a Wednesday appearance on MetroNews “Talkline.”
“We have mobilized all of our detectives and we have a lot of resources, including the state Fire Marshal’s Office,” Matheny said.
The investigation began at around 5 a.m. last Saturday when firefighters on the scene notified the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department that there were two bodies in the basement of the burning home on Good Hope Pike near Lost Creek. Matheny would not elaborate, but said are fairly certain they know who the victims are.
“We believe we know who they are, but that’s for the state Medical Examiner to determine,” Matheny said. “As you would understand, when we release that we want to be positive of who they are.”
The State Medical Examiner has determined the two victims were not victims of the fire, but no other information about possible trauma has been released.
“The cause of death is homicide, at this time we’re not releasing the manner of death,” Matheny said. “We’re still somewhat early in this complex investigation.”
Unconfirmed reports indicate witnesses reported a vehicle leaving the residence after a large boom. Crews battled the fire for more than two hours.
“As days go on and we uncover more information I’m confident we’ll come up with some sort of resolution,” Matheny said.
Information about the crime can be left by calling 304-255-7867.