Accomack man charged with arson, homicide after man found dead following Eastern Shore house fire

UPDATE: Virginia State Police have now charged 45-year-old Gary Joseph Fleig Sr., with first-degree and second-degree murder, arson, burglary, concealing a stolen firearm, use of fire firearm in commission of a felony, and possession of firearm by a convicted felon in connection to this incident.
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OAK HALL, VA. (WAVY) — Virginia State Police say they are now investigating a possible arson and homicide after a man was found dead following a house fire on the Eastern Shore on Saturday evening.

According to Sgt. Michelle Anaya of the Virginia State Police, police initially got the call regarding the incident from the New Church Fire Department just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

The residential structure fire occurred at the 6000 block of Lankford Highway, just south of the Maryland line. When fire crews responded to the incident, they discovered that the resident was still inside the home.

Along with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, state police identified the resident as 62-year-old Edward Bruce Mears Jr., a local musician.

At this time, the incident is being handled as a suspicious death, possible homicide, and arson investigation, after authorities say there were “similar incidents” in neighboring Worcester County, Maryland, on the same day.

Those who may have information and/or witnessed suspicious behavior are encouraged to contact the Virginia State Police at  #(757)424-6800 or at questions@vsp.virginia.gov.