Blaze claims couple

Two Liberty University alumni died during a blazing fire that broke out in Princeton Circle West Apartments off Rivermont Avenue on Friday, April 8. The couple, Aaron and Rachel Horton, were graduates of the class of 2007.

The fire started just before 5 a.m., Deputy Fire Marshal of Investigations Thomas Goode said. The cause of the fire is not yet known, he said.

“We have collected materials for the state forensics lab,” Goode said. “We won’t know for a few weeks.”

Several apartments in the complex were affected by the flames, with apartment number 113 having the most damage. Residents of apartments 105 through 124 were required to vacate the premises because of a gas leak. The residents will not return until the carbon monoxide levels dissipate, Goode said.

Red Cross is working to accommodate the displaced families.

More information will be given in a press conference in the coming days, Goode said.