The investigation into the death of a Chefornak priest, 72-year-old Theodore Kestler, who was found deceased in the rectory fire in that community has been concluded.

It was determined that Kestler died prior to the fire and that the fire was caused by candles that were lit in the residence. It was determined that Kestler died from natural causes.

The fire was first reported at 9:22 am on October 10th. Despite attempts to gain access to the fully engulfed structure and retrieve Kestler, responding citizens were unsuccessful.

The conclusion of the investigation was revealed at 8:13 am on Wednesday morning.[xyz-ihs snippet=”Adsense-responsive”]

  chefornak, death, fatalties, fire, priest, rectory, theodore kestler