Investigators continue to search for answers as to what caused a deadly house fire in the Sugar Tree community of Decatur County during the early morning hours of Saturday, July 13.
County Fire Coordinator David Whitaker said the call came in around 4 a.m. from a bow fisherman who noticed the flames from his spot on the river about 500 yards north of Brodies Landing. Emergency personnel responded to the residence at 148 Edd Raines Road and although the response was quick, the home was already engulfed. The flames were put out within the hour but crews from several area fire departments remained at the scene for several hours.
One person inside the house was apparently awakened just in time to break through a downstairs window, and along with a dog, was able to escape. There were two others reportedly inside the home who were unable to make it out.
According to Whitaker, no names are being released until the autopsy is complete. Decatur County EMA Andrew Sparks commented that he was appreciative of the support from several local fire departments and emergency personnel who responded including: Woodlawn Shores, Jeannette, Hydro, Parsons, Decaturville, Henderson County, Bath Springs, Holladay/McIlwain, South Forty along with EMA, EMS, medical examiner, Decatur County Sheriff’s Department and state fire marshal and auxiliary.
