The investigation into Sunday’s house fire in south Emporia has taken a sobering turn.
A news release from the Emporia Fire Department indicates one person was found dead inside the home as firefighters did their primary search inside 518 South Exchange. The victim’s name is not being released at this time until next of kin can be notified.
Emporia Fire Battalion Chief Eron Steinlage says the home had heavy fire damage inside the structure after smoke and flames were seen coming as firefighters arrived around 2:30 pm. A cause has not been determined.
Besides Emporia Fire, Emporia Police and the Office of Kansas State Fire Marshal helped with the investigation. Americus Fire, Evergy and Kansas Gas also responded.
This is the second fatal fire in Emporia in the last six months, following a destructive fire at 801 Clark in December. The victim’s name has not officially been released with that incident.
11:15 pm Sunday: EFD, State Fire Marshal investigating fire at 518 S Exchange
An investigation continues into a house fire that developed in south Emporia on Sunday afternoon.
Crews from Emporia and Americus were dispatched to 518 South Exchange shortly before 2:30 pm. Emporia Fire Battalion Chief Eron Steinlage says it was a smoky scene.
Steinlage says crews got inside quickly, but fire was already affecting much of the house by that time.
There is currently no word on injuries. The Office of Kansas State Fire Marshal is working with Emporia Fire investigators to determine what happened and why.
Lyon County records list the home as owned by Lucya Davis.
4 pm Sunday: ‘Stubborn’ fire ongoing in south Emporia
Emporia and Americus firefighters have been dealing with a “stubborn” house fire Sunday.
Crews were dispatched to the 500 block of South Exchange shortly before 2:30 pm. Smoke was evident coming from the attic as KVOE News arrived a few minutes later, with more smoke coming out of the front door on the west side of the house shortly before 3 pm.
Emporia Fire Battalion Chief Eron Steinlage says fire was noted in both the first and second floors, although details about a cause and origination point are yet to be determined. There is currently no word on interior damage or injuries.
Steinlage says the Office of Kansas State Fire Marshal is working with EFD on the investigation.
KVOE and KVOE.com will have updates. Click here for a KVOE YouTube Short from the scene and other videos through KVOE News.
