Investigators: Fire that killed woman in Lafayette County was accidental

Investigators with the State Fire Marshal’s Office believe an accidental fire started in the attic of a single-story home on County Road 369 in Lafayette County, causing the death of 35-year-old Monique Creshaun Gardener.

The fire was reported around 4:30 a.m. Sunday. Authorities have not released details about how the fire started, but they confirmed it originated in the attic or roof space of the residence.

As of 2026, there have been 53 fire-related deaths in the state. Officials noted that in at least 34 of those cases, there were no working smoke alarms present, highlighting the importance of fire safety measures.

Further investigation continues to determine the exact cause of the fire and Gardener’s death, but authorities have classified this incident as accidental.

Source: Original Article