Man Dies in Webster County Fire

Stephen Cogar, 22, died from smoke inhalation from the recent fire at the Division of Highways headquarters in Webster County. Cogar was found alive in the building and transported to Webster Memorial Hospital, but emergency medical staff were unable to save him.

Cogar, who is survived by his parents, was the night watcher and the only one in the building at the time of the fire. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed playing basketball and baseball, and loved to visit Dollywood and Splash Country in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Loved ones say he was known to always have a smile on his face.

Three local West Virginia fire departments responded to the fire, as well as EMS, state police, and the local sheriff’s department. The incident is being investigated by the state fire marshal.

In a statement issued shortly after Cogar’s death, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and the state’s first lady said:

“Cathy and I are heartbroken upon learning of the death of a West Virginia Division of Highways worker early this morning during a fire at the DOH headquarters in Webster County,” Governor Justice said. “It’s tragic to lose on our state employees, especially one so young. We ask all West Virginians to join us in praying for the family, friends and co-workers of this young man.”

Have You Been Injured in a Fire at Your Place of Employment?

Fires such as the one that occurred at the Division of Highways office can be devastating. In a job that was otherwise relatively free from risk, a man lost his life due to an event that could potentially happen anywhere at any time. And because it happened on the job, he had little to no ability to control how fire-safe the building was.

Incidents such as this go to show that everyone faces some risk when on the job.

If you or a loved one was injured or lost their lives in a work-related incident – especially if the event was as catastrophic as the recent Division of Highways fire, we can help. We understand the risks employees face on a daily basis and we know how quickly things can spin out of control. We work with employees injured on the job, as well as the families of those who have perished because of unsafe work environments. Nobody deserves to face this sort of risk simply because he or she is at work.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with an attorney, contact Heavens Law at 888.897.5377.