Man Found Dead Following House Fire Near Clay–Leslie County Line

BEAR BRANCH, Ky. — A structure fire near the Clay–Leslie County line claimed the life of a Bear Branch man Friday evening, according to Kentucky State Police.

Kentucky State Police Post 13 in Hazard was notified at approximately 6:58 p.m. Friday, January 23, of a residential fire on Turkey Foot Road in the Bear Branch community of Leslie County. The location is near the Clay County line.

Firefighters from Big Creek Fire Department, along with Leslie County Fire Services, responded to the scene and worked to extinguish the blaze. The Leslie County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police also responded.

After the fire was brought under control, responders discovered the body of a deceased individual inside the residence. Detectives were notified and immediately began an investigation.

The deceased was later identified as Rex Smallwood, 68, of Bear Branch, who is believed to have been the sole occupant and resident of the home. The Leslie County Coroner’s Office pronounced Smallwood deceased at the scene.

Authorities say no foul play is suspected at this time. Smallwood’s remains were transported to the Kentucky Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy as part of standard procedure.

The incident remains under investigation and is being handled by Kentucky State Police Detective Darrell Hicks. No further details were immediately available.