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A deadly house fire in Syracuse that claimed the life of a 53-year-old man earlier this week has been ruled accidental by investigators. Crews responded to a residence on West Brighton Avenue on Wednesday and found heavy smoke and flames billowing from the home upon arrival.
Firefighters searched the burning structure and discovered Patrick Archibald Jr. on the first floor. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation into the cause of the blaze has concluded that the fire was accidental, though specific details about what sparked the flames have not been released.
According to syracuse.com, Archibald was a longtime Syracuse resident who graduated from Henninger High School. He previously worked as a barber and also held jobs in area factories throughout his career.
Friends of Archibald have begun to remember him in the wake of the tragedy. The loss has affected the local community, where he was known for his work and connections over many years.
Fire officials have not indicated whether smoke detectors were present or functioning in the home at the time of the blaze. No other injuries were reported in connection with the incident.