Lamar County, MS (March 3, 2025) – A 70-year-old man lost his life in a house fire on Rutledge Road Friday afternoon, according to the Lamar County Coroner.
The victim’s identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. Authorities received multiple calls about the fire early Friday evening, with some callers reporting a loud explosion and that a person was inside the home.
When first responders arrived, the fire had already engulfed the house, making entry impossible. Lamar County Fire Coordinator Kyle Hill confirmed that firefighters had to battle the flames from the outside as the structure, an older wooden-framed house with a raised-floor foundation, quickly collapsed. The fire was eventually brought under control, but by then, the roof had caved in, making rescue efforts extremely difficult.
At approximately 6:30 to 7:00 p.m., officials confirmed the fatality. The Lamar County Coroner’s Office and the Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to conduct an investigation and recover the victim’s remains.
Investigators determined that the fire started in the kitchen before spreading throughout the home. The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The Dangers of House Fires and Fire Safety Awareness
House fires can be especially deadly when they spread rapidly, trapping occupants inside before they have a chance to escape. Older homes, particularly those with wooden frames and raised foundations, can burn quickly, making it difficult for firefighters to perform interior rescues.
In many cases, fires that start in the kitchen are caused by unattended cooking, electrical malfunctions, or grease fires. Ensuring that smoke detectors are functioning properly and having an emergency evacuation plan in place can help save lives in the event of a fire.
Investigators will continue to assess the scene to determine what may have caused the fire and whether any preventive measures could have reduced the severity of the incident.
For those affected by house fires, recovery can be emotionally and financially challenging. Seeking assistance from local disaster relief organizations can provide essential support in the aftermath of such tragedies.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a house fire and needs assistance, contact Local Accident Reports for more information.