Media Release

3:45 p.m.

 

ALACHUA COUNTY - Fire rescue units responded this morning to a residential structure fire located at 1875 SW 35th Place that claimed the life of one victim in Alachua County. The identity of the victim is not known at this time.

 

A neighbor called 9-1-1 and reported the house fire with flames seen extending through the roof. Fire rescue personnel arrived on scene at 8:18 a.m. and encountered heavy fire conditions involving approximately 75% of the home. Firefighters from both Alachua County Fire Rescue and Gainesville Fire Rescue made an aggressive attack on the fire and had it under control in 32 minutes. Firefighters discovered the body of the victim near the front door while conducting search and rescue operations during their initial efforts.

 

No other homes were involved in the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The State Fire Marshal's Office is conducting the fire investigation and will determine the origin and cause of the fire. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office is conducting the death investigation. 

 

Alachua County Fire Rescue encourages residents to test their smoke alarms at least once a month and change batteries twice a year. ACFR can provide you with a working smoke alarm if you do not have one, call 352-384-3103.   

 

For more information, contact ACFR Fire Marshal, Mark Smith at 352-384-3103.

 

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