Caroline officials identify victim of house fire

Caroline County authorities today identified a 63-year-old man killed in Saturday’s fire at his home.

Robert E. Jeter Sr.‘s remains were found after firefighters extinguished the fire at the house in the 30000 block of Bethlehem Road in the Sparta area, near the Essex County line, authorities said.

Firefighters were summoned at 6:22 p.m. after a 911 call. Caroline sheriff’s deputy C.M. Polliard arrived first and found the house engulfed in flames. Intense heat prevented him from going into the home, authorities said.

Firefighters from the Sparta Volunteer Fire Department arrived at 6:42 p.m., followed by personnel from several other fire departments.

The area has no hydrants, so tanker trucks from various fire companies provided water to battle the blaze, officials said. The house was a total loss.

Virginia State Police and Caroline authorities are investigating the cause, and officials said all indications point to an accidental fire. An autopsy will be performed.