Coroner: 2 dead in Eureka fire were shot

EUREKA, Ill. — Woodford County officials say two people found dead in a Eureka fire last month were victims of double shootings.

Woodford County Coroner Tim Ruestman says evidence suggests 39-year-old Troy Burwell shot his 13-year-old niece Cheyenne Burwell at close range on Oct. 5 before shooting himself. Ruestman says authorities still are unsure about a motive and don’t know who started the fire. They do say they believe the two are the only people involved in the shootings and fire.

But toxicology reports found elevated carbon monoxide levels in both the man and girl. That signifies the fire started while both Burwell and his niece were still alive. The girl was in eighth grade and living with her uncle.

Ruestman says final toxicology reports are still pending and authorities continue to investigate.