Cigarette was cause of Middletown fire that killed 2

The second victim identified as Kathurn Veino, 67.
Two people were killed and a firefighter was injured in an early morning house fire Sunday in Middletown in the 1800 block of Clarendon Avenue. BRYANT BILLING / STAFF

Credit: Bryant Billing

Credit: Bryant Billing

Two people were killed and a firefighter was injured in an early morning house fire Sunday in Middletown in the 1800 block of Clarendon Avenue. BRYANT BILLING / STAFF
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Updated July 10, 2025
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An improperly extinguished cigarette caused the Sunday house fire that killed two in Middletown, according to a fire report.

Kathurn Veino, 67, died at Atrium Medical Center after being pulled from the blaze, in addition to Douglas Daughetee, 63.

The fire began in a bedroom when a cigarette ignited bedding.

A firefighter sustained minor injuries.

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At 8:30 a.m. Sunday, fire crews were called to the one-story home at 1825 Clarendon Avenue.

Upon arrival, firefighters located the two occupants and removed them from the home.

Both were taken to a nearby hospital, where they succumbed to their injuries, said Middletown Communications Manager Clayton Castle.

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About the Author

Bryn Dippold joined the Journal-News staff in March 2025 and primarily covers the city of Middletown. Previously, she was associate editor for Cincy Magazine and worked as freelance copyeditor for Cincinnati CityBeat. She has had bylines in Cincinnati Magazine, The News Record and UC News.