Space Heater Suspected as Cause in Deadly Fire in Louisiana that Claimed the Life of an Elderly Couple

Louisiana – The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office (LASFM) reported on September 15, 2022, that it is continuing its investigation into a deadly house fire in Delhi, Louisiana.

According to authorities, at about 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 14, Richland Fire District Ward 1 responded to a report of a house fire on Carson Road with aid from Holly Ridge Fire Department. Unfortunately, the bodies of an elderly couple were discovered inside by firefighters.

The Richland Parish Coroner’s Office is still working on official identifications and causes of death, but the victims are thought to be the 78-year-old male and 77-year-old female homeowners. The victims were in separate bedrooms when they were discovered.

LASFM deputies found the fire started in the home’s living room area after assessing the situation and collecting witness accounts.
While the specific cause is yet unknown, deputies have not ruled out the possibility that an unattended, operational space heater or a separate electrical fault played a role.

“It is alarming that on the very first night that our state experiences even a slight drop in temperature that a tragedy like this happens,” said State Fire Marshal Dan Wallis, “We all have to make it our mission as we head into the fall and winter seasons to commit to being more aware of the fire dangers in our homes, especially as it relates to heating. And we have to take the necessary steps to lessen or eliminate those dangers once identified to ensure our family’s safety.”

If you use a space heater for warmth, keep it at least 3-5 feet away from flammable materials such as blankets and furniture. Furthermore, ensure that the appliance is hooked directly into a power socket rather than an extension cord, and never leave a space heater running when you are not in the room or sleeping.

Deputies were also unable to establish the presence of functioning smoke alarms in the home. The LASFM wishes to remind all Louisiana citizens that smoke alarms can be the difference between life and death in a fire. Operations Save-A-Life can assist you in obtaining smoke alarms for your home. Follow this link to learn more about Operation Save-A-Life.