School officials confirm fire victim was 8th grader and member of Union High Marching Bears

A top official at Union Middle School has confirmed that 13-year-old student Josh Azbill was the victim in Sunday’s house fire in Norton that is under investigation by the Virginia State Police.

Principal Paul Clendenon said Josh was “the epitome of kindness and empathy toward others.” The social media page for the Union High Marching Band memorialized Josh, an eighth-grade tuba player who had just received the perfect attendance award at camp and was preparing to make his debut with the group at Bullit Park during football season.

Clendenon said Josh’s passing has been devastating to the community. Principal Elijah Helton of Union High said the school staff and student body have sent condolences to his family.

(IMAGE: Union High School Marching Bears / Official Facebook / DPI)