Deputies assigned to the Southern Precinct were called to the 200 block of Doncaster Road in Joppa, around 7:00 am, on December 25, 2024, to assist with the investigation into the death of a 68-year-old resident found deceased in a house fire.

Investigators with the Criminal Investigations Division of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office responded and determined the victim, Roger Butash, had died in the fire. Based on the preliminary investigation, investigators found nothing to indicate foul play or any suspicious circumstances in his death. A final determination will not be made until the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshall concludes their investigation into the cause of the fire.

We would like to thank our first responder community who provided critical assistance to the family of the deceased, the residents of the home, and the surrounding community. Our hearts are with the victim’s family after suffering an unthinkable loss on Christmas morning.