A Vian man and his dog were found deceased on Jan. 31 after they were discovered inside a residence following a structure fire at 608 W. Mayfield.
According to reports, Jerry Dale “J.D.” Butler, 62, perished in the fire along with his dog, Runt.
Vian Fire Chief Keith Boshers said firefighters were called to the residence around 6 p.m. where they found the home fully engulfed. He said with the help of both McKey and Rural Fire Protection District #1 fire departments, they were able to save the home.
Boshers said both the state medical examiner and fire marshal responded to the scene, and Butler’s body has been turned over to the medical examiner.
Vian Police Chef Mark Harkins said officers visited with Butler’s family for some time, offering their condolences and services for any counseling or mental health.
“Sometimes through tragedies, great friendships and bonds are formed, and we at Vian Police Department believe that was the case tonight with this grieving family,” Harkins said.
No formal funeral service is scheduled for Butler at this time. Cremation is under the direction of Lescher-Millsap Funeral Home of Muskogee.
