House fire ruled non-suspicious; fundraiser continues
Some belongings were found in the rubble after the fire, including Sheron Lockman’s wedding ring. Photo by NORTH BENCH FIRE
BONNERS FERRY — The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office, North Bench Fire personnel and the Boundary County Fire Investigation Unit, all investigated the Aug. 12 fire on Roosevelt Road that destroyed Sheron Lockman’s home.
Sheron Lockman had just recently become a widow after losing her husband of 50 years in July. In the house with her that morning was her son, Royce Sutterlund. Both were transported to the hospital and the log home was a total loss.
According to a press release from the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office, after locating the possible point of origin from photos taken during the fire, the sight was then excavated to ensure safety.
“After extensive scene examination and interviews of victims and witnesses, plus with video from North Idaho Energy Logs, the fire at this point is determined to be non-suspicious, accidental, pending final Fire Marshal’s report and lab results,” wrote Boundary County Sheriff’s Detective Dave McClelland in the press release.
Lockman’s grandson, Jared Sutterlund, reported that both victims of the fire are recovering.
“Sheron is recovering well from the smoke inhalation,” said Sutterlund. “She is maintaining good oxygen saturation and she should make a good recovery.”
According to Jared Sutterlund, Royce Sutterlund is still being treated for second and third degree burns, but he believes that he should heal well.
Jared Sutterlund said that he was out at the house last weekend and was able to sort through the devastation, and was surprised by some of the items located.
“I am happy to report that we found grandma’s wedding ring,” he said. “We also found her wallet, albeit slightly roasted.”
Among some of the items found were some photographs — damaged but still memories to hold.
The fundraiser has received a good response from the community, with more than $1,000 donated along with other needed items. The fundraiser will continue and in addition, there will be a yard sale benefit that will include some of Lockman’s antiques.
For those interested in donating items to the yard sale:
Mike and Ronnie Howe at 6622 Van Buren Street.
Lockman Fire Fund is set up at Mountain West Bank.
Information: Jared Sutterlund at 208-290-3133