Castile, N.Y.—Wyoming County Sheriff’s Deputies have discovered a body at the North Main Street building that was destroyed by an early morning fire on Tuesday.
“Two plus two is kind of equaling four; it is probably Lorraine Qutermous,” said Wyoming County Undersheriff Greg Rudolph.
The massive fire broke out in Qutermous’ second floor apartment and spread to the rest of the building. Aside from her apartment, town and village offices, records and Qutermous’ restaurant were housed at the historic site.
“You lost a piece of history plus you lost a woman that was a staple to the community,” said Dennis Rowe, a former resident.
On Wednesday afternoon, Castile residents shared warm memories of good meals at Lorraine’s Place.
“It was quiet, the service was good, the people were friendly, just a nice place to eat,” said Don James, a regular customer.
Investigators have not yet made a positive identification of the body.
The building has been partially demolished to make the area safe enough to restore traffic to state Route 39, according to the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office.
Castile’s village and town are still under a State of Emergency as their government offices have not been fully relocated.
The Bank of Castile donated office space to help both town and village, according to Castile Town Supervisor Steve Tarbell.
