Follansbee Man Dies in House Fire

Benjamin John Bucy, 65, perished in early morning blaze

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Benjamin John Bucy, a 65-year-old self-employed painter and musician from Follansbee, West Virginia, died tragically in a house fire in the early morning hours of Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Bucy was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in nearby Wellsburg, West Virginia.

Why it matters

House fires are a major cause of accidental deaths in the United States, with the elderly being particularly vulnerable. Bucy's passing highlights the importance of fire safety and prevention measures, especially for those living alone or with limited mobility.

The details

According to authorities, the fire broke out in Bucy's Follansbee home in the early morning hours. Firefighters were unable to save Bucy, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but no foul play is suspected.

  • The fire occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
  • Bucy's memorial mass at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church will be held in the near future.

The players

Benjamin John Bucy

A 65-year-old self-employed painter and musician from Follansbee, West Virginia who died in a house fire.

Rita Bucy

Bucy's mother, who survives him.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for robust fire safety measures, especially for elderly individuals living alone. Community members should consider checking on vulnerable neighbors and ensuring their homes are equipped with working smoke detectors and other fire prevention tools.