One Man Dead After Early Morning Fire in Presque Isle

The State Fire Marshal’s Office has identified the man who died in an early morning fire in Presque Isle. Investigators say 36-year-old Shawn Whitington was home alone when the fire broke out.

According to State Police, Whitington’s girlfriend, Tricia Ciccolella returned with friends to the mobile home on the Tompkins Road around 4:30 a.m. to discover the blaze.  They tried to get inside, but were forced back by smoke and fire. Whitington had been with the others earlier in the night but had gone home around 1 a.m.

The Presque Isle Fire Department, along with firefighters from Easton and Caribou responded and brought the fire under control in about an hour. Whitington’s body was found in his bedroom after firefighters put the fire out. The body will be examined by the State Medical Examiner’s Office.

A team of  Fire Marshal Investigators remained at the site today to try to pinpoint the cause.