Nov 13, 2024

Police ID victim in arson fire at Kansas home

Posted Nov 13, 2024 3:00 PM
Photo courtesy WIBW TV
Photo courtesy WIBW TV

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Authorities investigating a fatal house fire in Topeka have identified the victim as 46-year-old David S. Blevens of Topeka.

Investigators determined the cause of this fire was intentionally set, according to Topeka Fire Department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.  The incident is being investigated as a homicide.  

Just after 6p.m. Oct. 13, crews from the Topeka Fire Department  responded to a reported house fire at 1640 SW Buchanan Street.

Photo courtesy WIBW TV
Photo courtesy WIBW TV

Firs responders found heavy smoke and flames coming from the two-story residence. Firefighters performed a search and found Blevens on the second floor of the residence who was later pronounced deceased.

Crews extinguished the fire. Investigators have not reported an arrest.