Elderly Man Dies in Early-Morning House Fire Saturday in East Gadsden

TWLN Staff Reporter | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

GADSDEN, Ala. — An early-morning house fire in East Gadsden claimed the life of an elderly man Saturday, January 24, authorities confirmed.

Gadsden Emergency Services responded to a 911 call reporting a structure fire at approximately 7:47 a.m. at a residence located at 1006 Wainwright Avenue, in the Green Pastures community. Firefighters from Gadsden Fire Station #3, which is situated directly across from the residence, observed the fire and immediately responded to the scene.

According to Gadsden Fire Battalion Chief Lecil Harrelson, crews arrived to find the structure heavily involved. Neighbors reported that someone might still be inside the home. During firefighting operations, responders discovered one individual deceased inside the residence. Officials believe the victim was the only person in the home at the time of the fire. The victim’s identity has not been publicly released.

Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Gadsden Fire Department, Gadsden Police Department, Glencoe Fire Department, Alabama Power, Spire Gas, and A-Med Ambulance Services. Members of the Arson Task Force were also called in and are leading the investigation into the cause of the fire, which remains undetermined.

In a statement, the Gadsden Police Department expressed condolences to the family and community and urged residents to exercise caution during colder weather.

“We’re proud of all our first responders, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family and community at this time,” the department said. “As the weather gets colder, it’s important to remind everyone that space heaters and other heating devices should be used with caution. Stay warm and stay safe.”

The investigation remains ongoing.

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