The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of an overnight house fire in Opelousas that claimed the life of a female occupant, according to a news release from the fire marshal.
The Opelousas Fire Department was called to the 2000 block of Jake Drive just before 2 a.m. on Sunday. Firefighters located a woman who is believed to be the 70-year-old homeowner in a bed in the home. Official identification and cause of death is pending autopsy.
After assessing the scene, investigators determined the fire began in the home’s kitchen area. While the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time, deputies believe electrical factors contributed to the fire.
Unfortunately, investigators were unable to locate smoke alarms in the home. The fire marshal would like to remind all residents of the significant difference smoke alarms can make in a family’s chances of surviving a fire. Today, specifically, homeowners are being reminded to change smoke alarm batteries when changing clocks to adjust for Daylight Saving Time.
If you need assistance obtaining smoke alarms, contact your local fire department and/or district, which partners with the fire marshal through Operation Save-A-Life, to install up to three free smoke alarms in a home. You can also request an Operation Save-A-Life smoke alarm by visiting lasfm.org.
