Share This:

Louisiana Woman Dies in House Fire Caused by Unattended Barbecue Pit

Marksville, Louisiana – The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office (LASFM) revealed on September 23, 2022, that they had concluded that a midday fire in Marksville, Louisiana that claimed the life of a female occupant was caused by an unattended BBQ pit that got out of control.

The Marksville Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire in the 400 block of Overton Street at about 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 21. When firefighters arrived, they discovered that despite relatives’ efforts to save her, a disabled female inhabitant remained inside. Sadly, the woman died at the scene.
The Avoyelles Parish Coroner’s Office is still working on official identification and cause of death, but the victim is thought to be the 70-year-old homeowner.

LASFM deputies discovered the fire started under the carport, where a barbecue grill was being used to prepare lunch, after assessing the situation and gathering witness accounts. Deputies discovered the grill was in the bed of a pickup truck, and the fire from the grill caught combustible things in the truck’s bed on fire. The fire then grew out of control and spread throughout the house.

According to reports, attempts to suppress the fire were attempted but were unsuccessful. As the fire advanced into the house, attempts were made to save the disabled woman. Relatives said they had to leap out a window due to the smoke, but they kept trying to pull the woman out through the same window until firefighters came.

The LASFM recommends utilizing grills in open areas three feet away from structures and combustible objects when it comes to outdoor cooking and grill safety. Grills should also be cleaned after each use. If you’re using charcoal, make sure the coals are completely cool before throwing them away. Before igniting a gas grill, check any hoses for leaks and make sure the grill cover is open. Finally, even if it’s outside, you should never leave active cooking equipment or an open flame alone.

Follow this link to report a typo or other issue.