Authorities conclude fatal fire investigation

Investigators have confirmed smoke inhalation as the cause of death after a Spencer man was found in a house fire in the overnight hours leading into Friday.

The Spencer Fire Department was dispatched to a fire at 513 West Fifth Street. Upon arrival firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire, which could be seen coming from the front of the building.

Firefighters went through severe heat and fire to locate any potential occupants. They located a male in the kitchen, who was later identified as 59-year-old Wayne Weier Sr.

An investigation into the origin and cause of fire was conducted by the Spencer Fire Department, the Spencer Police Department and the Iowa State Fire Marshals Office. The origin for this fire was traced to the northeast living room area of the house on the main floor.

"The cause for this fire was determined to be accidental," a statement from Deputy State Fire Marshal David Schipper of Iowa State Fire Marshals Office said. "No intentional sources for this fire were determined."

Investigators think an electric space heater ignited a sofa in the living room.

Damage is estimated at $25,000. The building cannot be occupied at this time.

No other injuries were reported.

The Spencer Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the Spencer Police Department, Spencer Hospital Ambulance, Spencer Utilities, Black Hills Energy, the Iowa State Fire Marshals Office, and the Clay County Medical Examiner.

Funeral services for Mr. Weier took place Monday at Warner Chapel in Spencer. Military services for the honorably discharged Vietnam veteran were conducted by the VFW Clay County Post 3159 of Spencer.

Mr. Weier is survived by a close friend, Dori Beck of Spencer; his son, Wayne Weier Jr. of Ankeny; his daughter, Tara Campbell and her husband, Terry of Greeley, Colo.; Jeree and Alice Beck of Spencer; seven grandchildren; five brothers; and two sisters.