State Police investigate fatal residential fire in Jefferson County

On January 21, 2026, at approximately 11:26 a.m., the New York State Police, along with multiple fire departments, responded to a report of smoke coming from a residence located at 26052 State Route 283 in the town of LeRay.

Upon arrival, responders observed an active residential structure fire. After the fire was extinguished, one individual was located deceased within the remains of the structure. Identification of the deceased is pending positive identification by the Medical Examiner’s Office. 

The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

Responding agencies included the New York State Police Watertown, Calcium Fire Department, Black River Ambulance, Black River Fire Department, Evans Mills Fire Department, North Pole Fire Department, Fort Drum Fire Department, Town of Watertown Fire Department, City of Watertown Fire Department, West Carthage Fire Department, Sackets Harbor Fire Department, Jefferson County Office of Fire and Emergency Management, New York State Department of Transportation, Jefferson County Highway Department, and National Grid.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.