Two house fire victims identified

CLOVIS — Curry County officials provided identification for two of the three victims in Tuesday’s fatal fire on Wheaton Street.

County Sheriff Wesley Waller said the Office of the Medical Investigator identified Johnie Lee Brewer, 77, and Leona Drake, 95. Both resided at the residence at 420 S. Wheaton.

Officials said the third victim is believed to be Alva Nelson, who lived in the home with Brewer and Drake, but had not received medical confirmation on Friday.

So far in the investigation, Waller said, nothing points to criminal intent in the fire. Evidence, Waller said, indicates the fire originated inside the bedroom of the third victim, and all three succumbed to the effects of fire and smoke.

“The Office of the Medical Investigator is continuing to conduct carbon monoxide and toxicology testing, and will continue with their investigation to positively identify victim #3,” Waller told The News in an email. “The State Fire Marshal's Office is continuing to examine and analyze evidence collected from the scene.”