Gazette Staff Report
The State Fire Marshal’s Office is examining facts surrounding the cause of a residential structure fire where a man’s body was recovered earlier on Sunday morning.
According to a KLFY News 10 report, investigators say the fire happened around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday when Ville Platte firefighters responded to a report of a fire at 724 Calcasieu Street. The firefighters found smoke and flames venting from a wood-framed home. During suppression efforts, the body of 62-year-old James Malveaux was located inside the residence, which was heavily damaged by fire.
State Fire Marshal investigators were called on the scene to assist in determining the cause of the fire. After examination by investigators, Malveaux's body was released to the Evangeline Parish Coroner for autopsy, where an official cause of death will be determined.
KLFY further reported that after searching the structure, investigators established that the blaze had originated within the southwest portion of the home, where a number of possible heat sources were located. The official cause of the fire, however, had not been determined at this time and the investigation continues.
There were no smoke alarms found in the residence.
Make sure to pick up a copy of Thursday's Ville Platte Gazette for further details on the fire.