Woman, 86, Dies in Union House Fire as Investigators Search for Cause

Emergency crews responded to a house fire on Hill Avenue around 1 a.m. on April 22, according to the Broome County Sheriff's Office. Neighbors reported seeing smoke and flames coming from the residence. When first responders arrived at 803 Hill Avenue, they found the home fully engulfed and called for backup from nearby fire departments.

Victim Identified as Joyce E. Bassos

Once the fire was under control, firefighters searched the building and discovered the body of a resident inside.

Authorities later identified the victim as Joyce E. Bassos, 86. No other residents or pets were reported in the home at the time of the fire.

Officials Investigate Cause of Fire

Investigators from the Broome County Office of Emergency Services and the sheriff’s detective division spent several hours at the scene, working to determine what started the fire. As of Tuesday, the cause remains under investigation.

No Criminal Activity Suspected in Fire

Officials emphasized that, based on their preliminary findings, there is no evidence of foul play or criminal activity related to the fire.

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Multiple Departments Respond to the Scene

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including fire crews from Union Center, Endwell, West Corners, Maine, and Vestal. Union EMS, Broome County fire investigators, and sheriff’s detectives also assisted with the response and investigation.