Shreveport Fire crews received a report of a house fire in the 7500 block of McArthur Drive on Thursday, Feb. 20, 6:46pm. Engine 3 arrived scene within 3 minutes to find a single-story home fully engulfed in flames.

It took the efforts of eight fire units and 24 firefighters to bring the incident under control at 7:24pm. Unfortunately, during the efforts a fire victim was discovered in the back bedroom of the home. One occupant was able to escape prior to Shreveport Firefighters arriving on scene.

The origin and cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time by Shreveport Fire Investigators and the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. Identification of the victim will be forthcoming by the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office. This marks the second fire death in the City of Shreveport for the year.

Chief Clarence Reese Jr. stated, “With a heavy heart I must announce, we have suffered the second fire death within our city in just as many months of the new year. Our condolences are with the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time. Please know that the men and women of Shreveport Fire remain committed to the safety of our citizens, and we continue to work tirelessly to prevent such tragedies in the future. We ask the community to keep the family in your thoughts as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.”