TROY, N.H. — A tragic early-morning house fire has claimed the lives of two residents in the small town of Troy, leaving the community in deep sorrow. The devastating blaze, which broke out on March 31, 2026, has not only taken two lives but also destroyed a home and left lasting heartbreak for those who knew the victims.
Officials with the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office have identified the victims as 24-year-old Madalyn K. Jalava and 56-year-old Benjamin P. Jalava. Both were residents of the home located at 51 Morse Street, where the fire occurred. Their sudden and tragic deaths have left family, friends, and neighbors grieving an unimaginable loss.
According to authorities, the fire is believed to have started in the chimney before quickly spreading to the porch, trapping the occupants inside. Members of the Troy Fire Department responded swiftly to the scene and bravely entered the burning home. Firefighters were able to locate both victims and bring them outside before beginning emergency medical care.
Madalyn Jalava was rushed to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where she later died from her injuries. Benjamin Jalava was transported to Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, where he was also pronounced dead. Tragically, family pets inside the home did not survive the fire, adding to the sorrow of the incident.
The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office is currently leading the investigation into the origin and cause of the fire. Officials have stated that, at this time, the incident is not considered suspicious. Autopsies for both victims are pending as part of the ongoing investigation.
Numerous nearby fire departments responded to assist, including crews from Fitzwilliam, Jaffrey, Marlborough, Keene, Ashby, Winchester, Dublin, Surry, Rindge, Spofford, and Richmond. Additional support was provided by Troy Police, Cheshire County EMS, and the Troy Water Department. Thankfully, no first responders were injured. As the investigation continues, the Troy community mourns the loss of Madalyn and Benjamin Jalava, remembering them as lives taken far too soon in a heartbreaking tragedy.
