Coroner gives tentative ID to Boardman fire victim

BOARDMAN — The victim of a Dec. 16 fatal fire at a Border Street home has been tentatively identified as Andrew Gallagher, 37, the homeowner.

A news release from the Mahoning County Coroner’s office said the death is being investigated for now as a homicide pending confirmation of Gallagher’s identity, however, the news release also noted that there was no sign of foul play or trauma on the body, and the home was locked when firefighters arrived.

The release also noted that Gallagher had threatened suicide before. The release said the body was found face up, chained to a toilet and was burned beyond recognition. The coroner’s office will take DNA samples from family members to confirm the identity, the release states.

No final ruling has been made yet on Gallagher’s death.