Investigation continues into fire at Beichner home

A state police fire marshal is continuing his investigation into the blaze that killed an Oil City businessman last month.

No new information has been released in connection with the Jan. 28 death of Rodney Beichner following the fire at his home at 121 Pennsylvania Ave. in Seneca.

Fire marshal Dana Beckwith said Friday more details will be revealed as to the origin of the fire and the cause of Beichner’s death once the ongoing investigation and insurance matters are worked through.

Beichner, 57, was the longtime owner of Williams Decorating at 2 State St. in Oil City.

He was also well-known throughout Venango County for his many contributions to the community, including at Christian Life Academy and his church, Seneca Evangelical Congregational Church.

Firefighters were called to Beichner’s home about 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28. He was pronounced dead about one hour later.

An autopsy was conducted the next afternoon, and final results could take a few more weeks.

Beichner’s wife, Deborah, suffered minor injuries in the fire and didn’t require medical attention.

Beichner first started working at Williams Decorating in 1975 while he was still a student at Cranberry High School.

He eventually became manager and later took over ownership of the store in 1990 when previous owner Arthur Williams decided to retire.