Authorities are seeking public assistance in uncovering details about a fatal fire that occurred in December 2024. The State Fire Marshal has issued a request for information regarding the incident, which claimed the life of a young woman.
Fire crews were dispatched to the 1100 block of Vernon Odom Boulevard on December 7 in response to a house fire. Upon arrival, firefighters observed smoke emanating from the upper level of the residence. Inside the attic, they discovered 20-year-old Haleigh Horger, who was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead, according to the fire department. Two firefighters sustained injuries during the response and were transported to Cleveland Clinic Akron General for treatment.
In an effort to gather leads, the Blue Ribbon Arson Committee and Summit County Crimestoppers have announced a combined reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to answers in the case.
Horger’s mother, Natalie Eslich, has been anxiously awaiting clarity on the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s death. “If it was your daughter or your sister or your best friend, you’d want to know,” Eslich stated. “You don’t expect this kind of phone call as a parent.”
While the official cause of the fire remains undetermined, authorities suspect arson. “If this is deemed arson, I want them to find who did it, and I know somebody out there has to know something,” Eslich added.
Investigators noted that the property had been marked for condemnation two months prior to the fire. City officials had placed a notice on the residence in October, though it remains unclear whether those inside had permission to be there. A city spokesperson confirmed that the house is on a demolition list.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact the State Fire Marshal tip line at 800-589-2728. Callers may remain anonymous, if they so choose.