Derby FD via Facebook
This image shows the scene in Derby on Nov. 10.
DERBY — Investigators are waiting for the results of toxicology reports from an autopsy conducted on the man who died in a house fire on Pleasant View Road Nov. 10.
The victim was identified as Michael Prall, 52. Obituary information is not yet available. Prall lived alone in the single-family house he rented from owners in Shelton.
Derby detectives, the Derby Fire Marshal’s Office, and state police are investigating. State police routinely provide assistance after fatal fires.
Fire Marshal Phil Hawks said Nov. 16 the fire appeared to have started in the home’s living room, where Prall’s body was found by firefighters.
The cause of the fire won’t be available until the toxicology tests are released by the medical examiner’s office.
Lt. Justin Stanko also said the cause of Prall’s death has not been determined because authorities are waiting for toxicology reports. The manner of death is also pending.
Generally, in investigations, the manner of death tells police how to proceed, such as whether the death was an accident, a homicide or suicide, a natural death, or undetermined.
The fire at Prall’s residence was reported at 12:22 a.m. Nov. 10. The first units on scene saw flames coming from the front section of the three-bedroom, ranch-style house, according to a statement from the Derby Fire Department.
