Sue Storrer Obituary, Death Cause – A late-night house fire in the Town of Eaton claimed the life of a 69-year-old woman on Tuesday, according to local authorities. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the victim was identified as Sue Storrer, who was unable to escape the flames.
Deputies said the fire broke out at a residence on Brooklyn Street, prompting an emergency response shortly before midnight. Crews were dispatched after a call came in around 11:39 p.m., reporting that the structure was engulfed in flames. When firefighters and deputies arrived, they found the home already heavily damaged by the blaze.
Officials reported that two individuals who were inside the home at the time of the fire were able to escape safely. Unfortunately, Storrer remained trapped inside as the flames spread rapidly. Despite the best efforts of first responders, she could not be rescued. Fire crews worked through the night to bring the situation under control, battling both the intensity of the fire and the dangers created by the building’s instability.
The fire was so severe that it led to a partial collapse of the residence, further complicating firefighting and recovery efforts. Once the blaze was finally extinguished and the scene was deemed safe enough to enter, investigators discovered Storrer’s body inside the remains of the structure. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
As a result of the fire, State Route 26 was shut down for several hours overnight between Landon Road and English Avenue. Authorities closed the roadway both to keep the public safe and to allow emergency crews to work without interruption. The stretch of road has since been reopened to traffic.
At this time, investigators with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office have stated that foul play is not suspected. The focus of the investigation remains on determining how the fire started and what may have contributed to its rapid spread. Fire marshals and sheriff’s deputies are working together to examine the charred remains of the home for clues, though the collapse and extensive damage are expected to make the investigation challenging.
The death of Storrer has left the Eaton community shaken. A longtime resident, she is remembered by neighbors as a kind and familiar face. The tragedy has underscored the devastating impact that house fires can have on families and small communities. In rural areas like Eaton, where homes may be farther from fire stations, response times can play a critical role in outcomes during emergencies.
Authorities have not yet released details about funeral arrangements or memorials for Storrer, but friends, family, and neighbors are expected to come together in support of those closest to her. Meanwhile, officials continue to urge residents to maintain fire safety precautions in their homes, including working smoke detectors and clear escape plans, to help prevent future tragedies.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on bringing clarity to the circumstances of the fire while honoring the memory of Sue Storrer, whose life was lost in the devastating blaze.