Fatal House Fire Near Westminster Under Investigation

South Carolina authorities are looking into the cause of a fire that left a Seneca man dead.

It happened Wednesday afternoon at a home on Armstrong Road, near Westminster.

After the fire was extinguished, a 36 year-old man, who owned the residence, was discovered dead in a bedroom of the home.

The death is being investigated by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Department and Oconee County Coroner’s Office.

SLED and Oconee County Fire Department Fire Investigators will be working to establish the cause and origin of the fire.

“Based on evidence found at the scene, this death appears to be due to a self-destructive event,” said Oconee County Coroner Karl Addis. “The preliminary investigation and exam of the deceased indicates he died from a gunshot wound to the head.”

An autopsy will be performed to assist with the death investigation, Addis said.  

“The manner of death remains pending further investigation,” he said.  

The name of victim has not been released pending notification of his family.