Fatal fire under investigation

KINGSTON — The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a structure fire that occurred Friday night, resulting in the death of a Silver Valley man.  

Emergency crews were called to 2337 Old River Road, between Albert's Landing and the Bumblbee cut-off, around 7:45 p.m. Friday after reports of a structure fire with someone still inside. Off-duty firefighters and Shoshone County Sheriff’s deputies arrived quickly, but intense heat, thick smoke and exploding ammunition and oxygen tanks made it impossible to safely enter the home. 

Fire crews worked quickly to knock down the flames, allowing emergency crews to search the residence. Their quick response also prevented the blaze from spreading to the nearby, heavily forested hillside.  

It was later confirmed that 77-year-old Patrick Bitterle died in the fire.  

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family,” Silver Valley Fire Rescue said in a statement. 

Silver Valley Fire Rescue is a collaboration between Shoshone County Fire Districts No. 1 and No. 2 and aims to provide the citizens of the Silver Valley greater service in fire, rescue and emergency medical services.