Johnstown, PA (May 9, 2024) – The victim of the fatal house fire in the Hornerstown area of Johnstown early this morning has been identified by Cambria County coroner Jeff Lees.
Alexander Perring, 32, reportedly sustained critical heat and inhalation injuries in the fire, according to Lees. According to investigators, just before 2:00 a.m., Perring’s residence on the 700 block of Pine Street caught fire as emergency personnel were en route to another house fire a short distance away. Perring was discovered in a bedroom on the second floor, per officials, and his cause of death is still under inquiry. No further details have been released in the interim.
We extend our deepest condolences to Alexander Perring’s loved ones.
Fatal House Fires in Pennsylvania
Fatal house fires are rare but still occur with some frequency across the country. Of course, when these deadly blazes do take place, they are devastating. With that said, any person or entity whose negligence caused the house fire may have liability in the incident. A wrongful death attorney will look into the events leading up to the house fire and help you establish who is responsible for your loss.
If a wrongful death action is successful, the court will compel the defendant to reimburse the plaintiff’s estate or survivors for “damages,” which are the plaintiff’s alleged losses. In Pennsylvania, a variety of losses may be covered by damages awards, such as:
- Burial and funeral costs
- Hospital expenses and related healthcare costs
- Estate administration costs, including lost income and benefits
- The loss of the deceased’s companionship
According to Pennsylvania law, damages are meant to compensate for the losses incurred by the surviving spouse, kids, and/or parents due to the death in question. The personal representative may still pursue damages to cover funeral and burial, hospital, and estate administration costs, even without a living spouse, child, or parent.
That said, like most other states, Pennsylvania has a “statute of limitations” provision that establishes a deadline for wrongful death litigation. A claim must be filed within two years of the deceased person’s passing. The court will probably decline to consider the lawsuit if it is not submitted within those two years.
For these reasons and more, it’s essential to contact a skilled attorney for assistance as soon as possible after a wrongful death has occurred. We know what it takes to fight for you and your family at the Slocum Firm. We will advocate for your best interests and secure your just compensation through every step of the claims process. Contact our Johnstown wrongful death attorneys at (570) 209-7376 to discuss setting up a free consultation and speak more about how our team will defend your legal rights after an accident.
