Vermont State Police say two residents of Chelsea died in a fire that occurred early Wednesday morning, June 17, 2026. The victims have been identified as 57-year-old Max Quayle and 71-year-old Karen Snyder, both of whom lived at the single-family home located at 5 North Common.
According to police reports, the fire was reported around 3:15 a.m., prompting responses from multiple fire departments, including those from Chelsea and Tunbridge. Firefighters extinguished the blaze after approximately three and a half hours, but the residence was declared a total loss. During a search of the structure, investigators discovered the remains of both individuals. Their bodies will be sent to the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Burlington for autopsies to confirm their identities and determine the cause and manner of death.
The investigation into the fire’s origin and cause is ongoing, led by the Department of Public Safety Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit. The Vermont State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations is also involved in the case. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Royalton Barracks at 802-234-9933 or submit an anonymous tip online. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Source: Vermont State Police
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