Manchester Fire's Cause Listed As Unknown

NORTH MANCHESTER - Because the damage was so extensive in the fire that killed a North Manchester man Monday, investigators were unable to determine a cause for the blaze.

Curtis E. Whitmore, 45, of 12249 N. CR 400E, North Manchester, died from smoke inhalation, according to Wabash County Coroner Marilyn McDonald.

Pam Bright, public information officer for the State Fire Marshal's Office, said Wednesday that the damage at Whitmore's residence was too severe to pinpoint a cause. The official investigation is concluded, with the cause listed as undetermined. It is not known whether there were smoke detectors in the double-wide mobile home.

Chester Township Fire Department battled the 3 a.m. Monday blaze with assistance from several area departments.