Authorities say the death of Thomas Hagerty is being investigated as homicide.
Authorities are investigating a fatal fire as a homicide case. On February 1st, 59-year-old Thomas Hagerty died in the 6am fire that occurred at a residence on U.S. 50 in Vinton County.
"The fire was ruled arson after investigators were able to eliminate accidental causes, and they did find specific evidence that the fire was intentionally set," said Shane Cartmill, with the State Fire Marshal's Office.
Specific details were not released.
Investigators are looking into the details of a vehicle that was seen in the area at the time of the incident. It's described as a dark-colored, mid-size car, with three brake lights -- one in the window and two that wrap around the rear panels.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Division of State Fire Marshal at 1-800-589-2728.
