Local News
Victims killed from carbon monoxide exposure in Gallia County home identified
The Gallia County Sheriff’s Office has released a detailed update following the tragic discovery of five deceased individuals at a residence in Clay Township on Tuesday morning, April 15, 2025.
The preliminary investigation, conducted jointly by the Sheriff’s Office and the Gallia County Coroner, has determined that the cause of death for all five individuals was carbon monoxide poisoning.
According to Sheriff Matt Champlin, the victims were discovered by a family member at approximately 10:45 a.m. at a home located on State Route 7 South in Clay Township.
Emergency responders were dispatched immediately and, upon arrival, confirmed that all five individuals were deceased.
The adult victims have been identified as 35-year-old Brian Adam Doss and 34-year-old Lora Schuman.
The remaining three victims were children—one girl and two boys—whose names are currently being withheld pending full family notification.
All five individuals resided at the home.
“We have reached a preliminary determination that these tragic deaths were caused by exposure to carbon monoxide gas inside the residence,” Sheriff Champlin said in a statement. “While we have established this likely cause, the investigation remains ongoing to gather further context and ensure every detail is understood.”
The Sheriff emphasized that no foul play is suspected at this time and the case is being treated as a tragic accident.
He added that the investigation will remain open until all aspects of the incident have been thoroughly reviewed.
“This situation is one that we all hope will never occur,” Champlin said. “The loss of any life is devastating, but to lose an entire family is truly heartbreaking. Today’s tragic events have forever changed the lives of those connected to this family, as well as our broader community. Please continue to lift them up in prayer and support during this time of unimaginable grief.”
The Sheriff’s Office extended its condolences to the loved ones of the victims and urged residents to remain vigilant regarding home safety, particularly concerning carbon monoxide exposure—a silent, odorless, and deadly threat.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues and next of kin are fully notified.
SURF CITY, N.C. — Emergency crews are battling a large multi-structure fire in Surf City that has already destroyed at least three homes and a large boat, according to reports from the scene and emergency radio traffic.
The blaze reportedly began near 5th Street, directly across from The Trailer Bar, and quickly spread to multiple nearby residences and a docked vessel.
Witnesses described seeing towering flames and heavy smoke visible from several blocks away as firefighters worked to contain the rapidly expanding fire.
Scanner reports indicate that multiple fire departments and emergency agencies from surrounding areas have been dispatched to assist Surf City Fire and Rescue in controlling the blaze and preventing it from spreading further.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire or whether there are any injuries.
Residents in the area were urged to avoid 5th Street and surrounding roads to allow emergency personnel full access to the scene.
This is a developing story, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available from Surf City officials and emergency services.