Investigators worked Sunday to identify a body found in a burned home in Adams County, leaving the official cause of death for an autopsy today, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities suspect foul play, and they’re searching for a 1989 maroon Chevrolet custom van missing from the home at 13444 Kennedy Ave. in Brighton.
The van has silver stripes on the sides and a Colorado license plate: SAB8853.
Although the missing van belongs to the homeowner, “we don’t make presumptions; we have to be sure about the identity,” said Candi Baker, spokeswoman for the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies obtained a search warrant. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and a K-9 unit were at the scene as well. The dogs, authorities say, are being used to see whether they can pinpoint where the blaze began.
Detectives also were on the scene, talking to family members of the presumed victim to learn more about his background.
“I can’t believe it happened . . ., especially on Father’s Day,” said neighbor Howard M. Jones.
“I’ve known him (the possible victim) for 25 or 26 years, and I couldn’t say a bad thing about him,” said neighbor Joe Stone.
Deputies say there does not seem to be any forced entry into the home.
Firefighters responded to a blaze at 4:15 a.m. Sunday, when neighbors reported smoke coming from the house.
“There are indications that this was a suspicious incident, and we are processing it as a homicide,” Baker said.
Anyone who spots the van should call 911, Baker said.
Tom McGhee: 303-954-1671 or tmcghee@denverpost.com
