UPDATE: Fatal Fire Reported In Ripley County

The fire broke out Tuesday afternoon on Benham Road.

Photo by Versailles Fire Rescue.

Update published Wednesday at 11:38 a.m.

A Versailles man has been identified as the victim of a deadly fire in Ripley County.

The Indiana State Fire Marshal says Kenneth Hayes, 83, was cutting on a fuel tank outside of his home on South Benham Road when an explosion occurred Tuesday afternoon. Hayes died from injuries sustained in the accident.

His official cause of death is pending autopsy.

The resulting fire ended up spreading to a nearby garage. No other injuries were reported.

 

Original story published Wednesday at 9:12 a.m.:

(Ripley County, Ind.) – A fatal fire was reported Tuesday afternoon in Ripley County.

Versailles Fire Rescue was dispatched to a home on the 6000 block of Benham Road around 4:45 p.m.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a fire outside of the home, which spread into the residence.

One person died as result of the fire. The name of the victim has not been released at this time.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Assisting at the scene was Friendship VFD, Osgood VFD, Napoleon VFD, Ripley County EMS, Aurora Fire Rescue, Ripley County Sheriff’s Office, and Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.

 

More from Local News

Events

Oldenburg Academy Names Jason Walke as Director of Academic Innovation

Walke will coordinate immersive educational experiences, including guest speakers, off-campus visits, and service projects.

Ripley County Man Arrested for Burglary in Sunman

The suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Regional Street Sweeping Beginning on Sunday, April 6

Motorists should slow down and be aware of slow-moving equipment and potential lane closures during this mobile operation.

Local Sports Report - April 2, 2025

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

South Ripley Varsity Basketball Coach Seve Beach Honored by IBCA

He has a 47-25 record in three seasons with the Raiders.

Switzerland County's Cooper Todd Commits to Anderson University

He will now go on to join the defending HCAC champions.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Patty Loveless - I'm That Kind Of Girl

Thomas Rhett After All The Bars Close 9:40
Charley Pride Jesus Don't Give Up On Me - PEC ONLY 9:37
Jamey Johnson The Dollar 8:58
Johnny Cash Daddy Sang Bass 8:56