A sad and bizarre story this morning from near Eastern Market.
DC Fire and EMS responded to a car fire in a garage on the corner of 8th and A ST SE a little before 5 AM today. Once on scene, firefighters found heavy smoke and fire in a garage. While the fire was quickly extinguished, firefighters discovered the body of a woman inside the car. According to Pete Peringer, DC Fire and EMS spokesperson, the leading theory is that the fire was involved in a low speed crash into or out of the garage. An investigation is being undertaken by MPD’s Major Crash Investigations Unit and the Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit.
The story remains murky but a few details are seeping out. The deceased woman has been identified by Politico as Ashley Turton, Director of Congressional Affairs for Progress Energy, Inc. She is the wife of Dan Turton, White House Deputy Director of House Legislative Affairs, who is listed on real estate records as the owner of the house. The Turton’s have three children.
Wow this is shocking and sad, I passed the scene while biking into work this morning. Condolences to the family.