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Tragedy Strikes Shreveport: Fire Claims Three Lives

Firefighters engaged in an emergency response to a house fire in Shreveport

News Summary

A devastating fire in Shreveport’s MLK neighborhood occurred early Sunday, resulting in three fatalities and one individual in critical condition. Firefighters from the Shreveport Fire Department responded promptly, but despite their bravery and efforts to rescue the occupants, three victims were pronounced dead. Investigations suggest the fire likely started in the front room, and officials highlighted the home’s lack of smoke detectors as a contributing factor. The Shreveport Fire Department urges residents to prioritize fire safety and install smoke alarms to prevent future tragedies.

Tragedy Strikes Shreveport: Fire Claims Three Lives, One in Critical Condition

Shreveport was gripped by a heart-wrenching tragedy early on a Sunday morning, as flames engulfed a home in the MLK neighborhood, leaving three people dead and one critically injured. The fire broke out at around 6:38 a.m. in the 2400 block of Kemp Lane, prompting an immediate response from the Shreveport Fire Department.

Emergency Response

Upon receiving the 911 call, thirty-one firefighters rushed to the scene, operating from thirteen units to tackle the fiery inferno. When they arrived, they were greeted with a terrifying sight: blazing flames shooting out of the front of the single-story home. The firefighters bravely entered the structure, determined to locate any remaining occupants.

Discovery of the Victims

Inside the smoke-filled house, the heroes of the Shreveport Fire Department discovered four victims who are believed to have lived at the residence. The first priority was to administer immediate life-saving measures. Sadly, despite their best efforts, three of the victims ultimately succumbed to their injuries:

Eureka Garner, 56 years old, was pronounced dead at Ochsner LSU Health Hospital.
Mildred Carter, 84 years old, passed away at Willis-Knighton Medical Center.
Ne-Vaeh Garner, just 5 years old, also died at Ochsner LSU Health Hospital.

The fourth victim remains in critical condition, receiving ongoing medical attention at a local hospital.

Circumstances Surrounding the Fire

As firefighters observed the scene, it became clear that the fire likely originated in the front room of the house. Investigators from both the Shreveport Fire Department and the Office of Louisiana State Fire Marshal are currently looking into the official cause of the fire, aiming to provide answers to a bewildered community.

The Importance of Fire Safety

A concerning discovery was made during the investigation: the home was found to have no apparent smoke detectors installed. Fire Chief Clarence Reece took a moment to express heartfelt condolences to the family and the broader community, underlining how devastating fire-related deaths can be for everyone. He emphasized that this loss touches the hearts of all residents.

In light of this terrible event, the Shreveport Fire Department is taking the opportunity to remind citizens about the critical importance of smoke alarms in every home. These lifesaving devices are not just gadgets—they can provide early notification in case of a fire, giving families valuable time to escape. The reality is that individuals may have less than two minutes to escape once a fire breaks out.

Getting Help with Fire Prevention

To ensure that no family has to experience such tragic loss, the Shreveport Fire Department encourages residents to test their smoke alarms monthly. For individuals who do not have smoke alarms installed, the SFD offers free installation services. This proactive measure can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

If you or someone you know needs assistance with smoke alarms, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Shreveport Fire Prevention Bureau at 318-673-6740 or visit the SFD’s official website for more information.

This tragedy in Shreveport is a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety. Everyone is encouraged to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers that flames can pose.