Firefighter accused of killing employer before responding to emergency call

Authorities in Ohio have charged a volunteer firefighter with the murder of a prominent varsity cheerleading head coach.

Peyton Beam, 22, faces counts of aggravated arson and aggravated murder following the death of 50-year-old Ericka Kramer.

The Darke County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call reporting a house fire at approximately 12:30pm on April 10. Upon arrival at the 2700 block of Zumbrum Road, emergency crews found the residence engulfed in flames.

"During firefighting operations, fire personnel discovered the body of a deceased adult female inside the house," a news release confirmed.

The coroner subsequently ruled the death a homicide. Prosecutors alleged at a bond hearing on Monday that the victim was executed.

"She was shot twice in the back and twice in the head. Her body was then drenched in what appears to be gasoline, and then her house set on fire to cover up this crime," the office stated, according to WHIO-TV.

Shockingly, Beam allegedly responded to the blaze in his official role. "(He) was called out as a firefighter to respond to this scene.

Under the guise of being a firefighter, he was one of the first people to get to the property," the prosecution added.

The Ansonia Athletic Department expressed its grief on Facebook, stating, "Coach Ericka will be deeply missed." Although Beam's attorney, John H. Rion, maintains his client's innocence, a $5 million bond has been set.

Mrs Kramer previously spent years inspiring students and was well-known for her dedicated service to Ansonia Schools.