Blaze that killed Pleasanton volunteer firefighter started accidentally, officials say
The fire that fatally injured a volunteer firefighter in Pleasanton, Kansas, was started accidentally, officials said Friday.
Joshua Haynes was injured Monday in a fire that destroyed the Carpenter Chiropractic Health Center in Pleasanton, which is about 70 miles south of Kansas City.
The 35 year old died as a result of his injuries on Wednesday at the University of Kansas Hospital, the Associated Press reported Thursday.
Officials determined that the fire started accidentally and there is no on going criminal investigation, said John Ham, a spokesman for Kansas City’s division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Investigators sent evidence from the scene to a laboratory to determine a more detailed cause of the fire, Ham said.
Haynes was a volunteer for Linn County’s Rural District 1 Fire Department. He is survived by three children, according to the AP.
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced Friday that flags across the state will be flown at half-staff to honor Haynes.
“My deepest condolences are with Joshua’s loved ones and the Linn County community during their time of loss,” Kelly said in a statement. “His bravery and service to our state will never be forgotten.”
A visitation for Haynes will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on June 28 at Pleasanton High School. A funeral with full honors will be held at 10 a.m. on June 29 at at Pleasanton High School. Both events will be open to the public.
