According to police reports, a fire that occurred on December 18, 2025, at 1100 Whitelaw Road in Ryegate resulted in the death of a 75-year-old resident, Tracy Shirley. The Vermont Department of Public Safety Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit has concluded that the fire was accidental.
Although the specific cause remains undetermined, investigators suggest that the fire may have originated from either discarded smoking materials or space heaters placed too close to combustible items. The Ryegate Fire Department responded to reports of the fire from neighbors in the late afternoon and subsequently called in the Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit to determine the cause.
The investigation classified the blaze as having an undetermined cause, with no signs of foul play. As this incident remains under review, officials advise that the findings could evolve as more information becomes available.
Tracy Shirley’s tragic death marks a somber reminder of the potential risks associated with home fires. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The Vermont fatal fire situation continues to develop.
Read more Vermont news stories at VTScout.
Source: Vermont State Police
About this report AI-assisted
Source: Vermont State Police ↗
How this was written: This story was drafted with AI assistance from public-record sources and published under VTScout's editorial standards. Spot something wrong? Request a correction.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges and court dates are subject to change. Reporting is based on information from law enforcement and public records, and will be updated as more details become available.
The VTScout newsroom covers Vermont local news, public safety, and community life across the four regions of the state. Tips and corrections welcome at [email protected].