Date of Release:  March 1, 2008

Reference:   Fire/Death Investigation

The Portsmouth Police Department along with the Portsmouth Fire Department and the NH State Fire Marshals Office are conducting an investigation of a fire at 25 Clinton Street where an elderly adult male was found deceased.  Two Portsmouth Police Officers who responded within minutes of the call attempted to pull the male from the residence but were overcome by smoke.  Both officers were treated at the Portsmouth Regional Hospital for smoke inhalation and released.

This investigation actively being investigated by all agencies involved.  All further press inquiries should be directed to the NH State Fire Marshals Office.

Anyone with any further information is asked to call Detective Thomas Hart at 436-2511, or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 431-1199 or 1-207-439-1199, or their website, www.seacoastcrimestoppers.org.