VICTIM OF MILTON RESIDENTIAL FIRE IDENTIFIED
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has confirmed the identity of the victim as Lenda A. Jennings-Routier, 70, of Milton. Jennings-Routier’s cause of death was determined to be smoke inhalation, and the manner was accidental. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is ongoing and no additional information is available at this time.
INITIAL NEWS RELEASE – December 6, 2025
MILTON, N.H. – New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean P. Toomey, Milton Fire Chief Nick Marique and Milton Police Chief Tom Hebert announce that one person is dead, and a joint investigation is underway after a fire at a home in Milton.
At 8:45 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, members of the Milton Fire Department responded to 285 Willey Road for a reported fire. The individual who called 911, who had been inside the house when the fire started, reported that another occupant was trapped inside. When the fire crews arrived at the scene, they had difficulty accessing the home because the driveway leading to it had not been cleared of snow. Responders encountered heavy fire conditions throughout the two-story house. As they prepared to enter, the second floor collapsed, rendering the home unsafe.
After the fire was extinguished, investigators and fire personnel located a deceased person inside the home. The name of the victim is being withheld pending an autopsy scheduled at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
The Milton Fire Department received assistance from agencies in multiple surrounding communities to extinguish the fire.
Investigators with the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office have responded to the scene and are leading the investigation into the origin and cause of the fire. Members of the Milton fire and police departments are assisting investigators at the scene.
Officials would like to remind everyone that if there is a fire in your home, it is crucial to get out and stay out. Additionally, please ensure that driveways and walkways are cleared of snow and ice to allow first responders easy access to your home in case of an emergency.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office at (603) 223-4289 or fmo@dos.nh.gov.