By David Eck
Enquirer contributor

Turtlecreek Township firefighter and paramedic Mike Jameson leaves the house after using a thermal imaging camera to search for hot spots at the scene of a fatal fire Thursday in the 1000 block of Oregonia Road. (Glenn Hartong photo) | ZOOM |

TURTLECREEK TWP. - Investigators say a couch placed too close to a burning fireplace apparently ignited early Thursday, causing a house blaze that claimed a man's life.

Warren County sheriff's officials said Harlan Stamper, 30, of Lebanon, was dead on arrival at Bethesda Warren County Hospital.

Four other people in the house were treated at Bethesda Warren for smoke inhalation, investigators said, and two were transferred to University Hospital, where they were treated and released.

Turtlecreek Township firefighters were called to the single-family home in the 1000 block of Oregonia Road about 5:30 a.m. and found flames coming from windows.

Four people who had fled the house told firefighters someone was trapped inside, authorities said.

Township Assistant Fire Chief Steve Flint said Mr. Stamper was found in a back bedroom.

The single-story home was destroyed, and the damage estimate was $100,000.

Firefighters from Lebanon, Union Township/South Lebanon and Salem-Morrow assisted Turtlecreek crews. About 40 firefighters responded. The Ohio Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.