Two People Found Dead in an Aroostook County Home

Northern Maine authorities say two people were found deceased inside a home in Wade.

Wade, Maine Couple Found Deceased Inside Their Home

The victims have been identified as Brian Merchant, 64, and Laurie Ridgway, 56, who lived together at the 505 North Wade Road home.

Maine State Police and Emergency Medical Services personnel went out the home at approximately 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday to conduct a welfare check.

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When they arrived they found the two people inside the home and confirmed that both were deceased.

Two Northern Maine Deaths Possibly Caused by Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

An investigation, that included the State Fire Marshal's Office, determined that the furnace exhaust pipe inside the residence had been improperly installed. At some point, it became disconnected, which caused exhaust fumes to vent directly into the home.

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Maine Department of Public Safety Spokesperson Shannon Moss says evidence suggests the two people likely died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Autopsies by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death.

Maine Residents Should Have Working Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The State Fire Marshal's Office reminds Maine residents to make sure they have properly installed carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors in their homes.

Heating systems should be regularly inspected, as well.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and even death.

We'll update this story as more details become available.