Stotts City blaze claims two

A fire in Stotts City the morning of Sunday, Nov. 30, claimed the lives of residents Dale and Betty Spencer.
The Stotts City fire department received the call at around 7 a.m., according to Fire Chief Nathan Schnake, at which point they made their way to the blaze at 5242 Lawrence 2100 in Stotts City along with two other area departments. The blaze lasted about an hour before it was contained. Following this, Schnake confirmed that the Spencers had died as a result of the fire.
According to Missouri Department of Public Safety Communications Director Mike O’Connell, the fire was most likely caused by a space heater that was plugged into an extension cord. It is considered to be accidental.
“The fire was determined to have originated in the northwest bedroom in the residence,” said O’Connell. “The use of a lightweight extension cord plugged into a portable heater could not be eliminated as a probable cause of the fire.”
The fire was responded to by the Mt. Vernon, Stotts City and Avilla fire departments, according to Schnake. The home, reduced to ashes and charred remains, is considered a total loss.
Longtime area residents, the Spencers were married for more than 69 years, having been high school sweethearts before getting married. According to their daughter, Karla Deaver, the two were together for their entire adult lives. Deaver said that not only did multiple fire departments come to help, but neighbors did too.
“We want to thank the Stotts City and Avilla fire departments, countless neighbors who came to help, and all those who have reached out,” said Deaver. “We appreciate your prayers and support. I also ask you to give our family some grace. Grief is sneaky and shows up at the most inopportune times.”