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The victim of a fatal fire that occurred last Friday on Brown Street, Schenectady, has been identified as 70-year-old Wayne Cook. The Schenectady Fire Department responded to the scene at 7 p.m., where they encountered heavy flames and smoke emanating from the first floor of the two-story home. Fire Chief Don Mareno reported that an explosion was heard before the team entered the residence, likely caused by oxygen and butane cylinders found inside the home.
An autopsy performed by Ellis Hospital confirmed that Cook died of smoke asphyxiation. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire was accidental. No other injuries were reported in the incident. The Daily Gazette reports that the investigation is ongoing.