LOVELY, Ky. (WMDJ) — A 92-year-old Martin County man was found dead Monday after a welfare check at his Riverfront Road home during the ongoing stretch of dangerous heat across eastern Kentucky.
According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office and reporting by The Mountain Citizen, the welfare check was requested after the man's landlord had not seen him for several days.
Authorities found Fleming Hurley deceased inside the residence. Martin County Coroner Chris Todd ruled the cause of death as acute respiratory failure and complications of hyperthermia related to extreme heat. Officials said no autopsy will be performed.
The sheriff's office also found several animals inside the home. One dog was dead, while another dog, a cat and four kittens survived but were in poor condition. Deputies removed the surviving animals, provided them with food and water, and are seeking foster placement and assistance with veterinary care.
In the wake of the incident, the Martin County Sheriff's Office is urging residents to check on elderly and disabled neighbors during periods of extreme heat and other severe weather.
The sheriff's office also highlighted its COAST (Check On A Senior Today) program, which provides regular welfare calls and deputy check-ins for seniors and others who may need assistance. Anyone interested in learning more about the program can contact the Martin County Sheriff's Office at 606-298-2828.
