Osage County Sheriff investigating fatal fire on McCord Road

UPDATE: Arrest made in case

The Osage County Sheriff’s Department reports that 33-year-old Michael Ray Porter of Ponca City has been arrested and is being held on charges of first degree arson, assault on an officer, and prisoner placing bodily fluid on employee. On Friday, officials responded to 185 north McCord Road for a report of a house fire. A deceased adult male was located inside the home. Investigators report that preliminary evidence suggests that arson was used in an attempt to obscure the crime scene. Officials are awaiting positive identification of the victim from the medical examiner before releasing a name.

MCCORD — The Osage County Sheriff’s Department reports that the body discovered in the burning home on McCord Road is an adult male who apparently died under suspicious circumstances. OCSO reports that they were notified of the incident at 8:50 a.m.

Sheriff Eddie Virden said the situation is being treated as a criminal case.

“Upon arrival, it was determined that a fire played some part at the scene. State Fire Investigators are already on site and working diligently to gather evidence. To aid in this investigation, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is also present, assisting both OCSO and the Medical Examiner’s office,” said Virden in a press release.

Investigators were still on scene as of late evening searching for evidence.

“Rest assured, our committed law enforcement agencies are doing everything in their power to ensure that justice is served. We will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses, keeping the community informed. If you have any information pertaining to this incident, please contact the Osage County Sheriff’s Office at 918-287-3131. Your cooperation is vital in our efforts to bring closure to this case. Stay vigilant, and let’s support one another during this difficult time. Together, we can help keep our community safe and secure.”

McCord — Authorities are investigating a fatal fire that occurred on north McCord Road today.

Sheriff Eddie Virden said that a body was found by firefighters inside the burned structure.

Virden said one person was attempting to put out the fire when firefighters arrived. That subject was transported to the hospital.

Virden said he was headed to the scene and that the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is assisting in the investigation. No other information is available at this time.