Civilian Fatality from a Residential Fire This Morning

Tour Commander, 509.625.7100

Monday, June 29, 2020 at 2:20 p.m.

The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) responded to a residential fire in the 1900 Block of East 6th Avenue at 3:15 this morning. SREC/911 received calls from citizens seeing a large amount of smoke billowing from the home's roof, and it was not known if the residence was occupied.

When SFD companies arrived, they forced entry into the two-story residence and were met with massive heat and smoke conditions. Companies fought challenges in the residence including a heavy fire load (described as hoarder conditions), extremely high heat, and unstable flooring. Teams of firefighters were forced to reassemble multiple times and change tactics in order to accomplish a search on the second floor where they successfully located and removed a 72-year-old male victim. 

Unfortunately, the victim succumbed to his injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other injuries to civilians or firefighters as a result of this incident. 

SPD Detectives are collaborating with SFD Fire Investigators on the case. The nature and cause of the fire remain under investigation.