An 18-year-old died in a house fire April 22 in the 4700 block of Booth Road.

The Talawanda High School senior, identified as Ryan Starrett, died from smoke inhalation, according to the Butler County Coroner’s Office website.

When Oxford FD responded to the fire around 4:30 p.m., firefighters struggled to get inside the home because of cars on fire outside of the home, along with “hoarder” conditions inside. According to a fire department press release, the fire was heavily fed by a damaged natural gas meter.

The three-bedroom house is owned by Timothy and Sharyn Starrett. They have owned the house since 1999, according to the Butler County Property Records.

According to a letter sent to Talawanda High School staff and families, Principal Scott Davie encourages parents to talk about feelings of grief with their children and be extra attentive to them at this time.

“The entire THS Family wishes to extend our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and classmates,” Davie said in the letter.

Funeral arrangements for Starrett are pending, but will be shared with the Talawanda school community when appropriate. 

The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Fire and Explosions Investigations Bureau is investigating the situation. Anyone with information about the fire is encouraged to call the Marshal’s office (614-752-7106).

— Patrick Sinclair