Louisiana State Fire Marshal Investigating August 2 House Fire that Resulted in One Death

On August 4, 2022, the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office (LASFM), reported that in collaboration with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, they are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding a house fire in Pineville that claimed the life of a male resident.

On Tuesday, August 2, at 6:45 a.m., the Alpine Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire in the 1400 block of Barthel Road. Unfortunately, firemen discovered a male victim’s body in a bathroom.

The Rapides Parish Coroner’s Office is still working on official identification and cause of death, but the victim is thought to be the 71-year-old homeowner.
LASFM deputies established the fire started in the carport area after assessing the situation and collecting witness accounts. While the precise cause is still unknown, deputies have not ruled out the potential of an electrical problem caused by poor wiring in and around the residence.

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office said when it comes to electrical safety, avoid using extension cords and power strips to establish power sources where there isn’t a wall outlet or linking two structures. Also, only use those cables and strips for short periods of time. In addition, if you have any electrical concerns in or around your home, contact a qualified electrician.

Deputies have also been unable to confirm the presence of a functioning smoke alarm. Smoke alarms have been shown to provide families with essential seconds to safely escape a fire.

If you need assistance obtaining smoke alarms for your home, Operations Save-A-Life can help. The program partners with local fire departments to install smoke alarms for free. Follow this link to learn more about Operation Save-A-Life.

Original:

Pineville, Louisiana – On August 2, 2022, the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office (LASFM) reported that Fire Marshal deputies started investigating a fire in Pineville involving one death.

According to LASFM, just before 7 a.m., the Alpine Fire Department responded to the 1400 block of Barthel Road for reports of a house fire. Firefighters, unfortunately, located the body of a male occupant inside.

The Louisiana Fire Marshal’s Office indicated that more information about this fire will be released as it becomes available.