Merrimack Mutual Fire Insurance v. Lanasa

Mrs. Giuseppa Lanasa, sometimes hereinafter referred to as the insured, owned a one-story building on Franklin Street, in Richmond, Virginia. The building was insured against loss by fire by Merrimack Mutual Fire Insurance Company, hereinafter referred to as the insurer. The policy of insurance contained a provision exempting the insurer from liability for loss occurring, “As a result of explosion or riot, unless fire ensue, and in that event for loss by fire only.” On June 27, 1957, while the policy was in force, the building was demolished by fire and explosion. Payment for loss was refused…