UPDATE: Two Lafayette firefighters sustained minor injuries after responding to what officials say was a vacant two-story house fire in the 800 block of NW Evangeline Thruway Tuesday afternoon.
According to the Lafayette Fire Department, the injuries happened when the structure collapsed while fighting the fire. No loss of work is expected following these injuries.
While examining the collapsed structure, investigators say a male victim was discovered in the burnt rubble. He has yet to be identified. The Louisiana State Fire Marshal, Lafayette Police Department, and Lafayette Parish Coroner's Office are assisting Lafayette Fire investigators.
Firefighters tell us the home was fully involved in the fire when they arrived on the scene, with heat from the fire damaging the exterior of a home next door. Thankfully, firefighters could keep the neighboring home from catching on fire, and emergency crews controlled the fire within 20 minutes of their arrival.
The home that was burning now has heavy fire damage. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.
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ORIGINAL:
On Tuesday, Lafayette firefighters were on the scene of a house fire in the 800 block of NW Evangeline Thruway. The fire was reported at 4:16 pm.
Witnesses called in the fire after noticing heavy smoke coming from the home. Firefighters were able to get the fire under control within 20 minutes. The home was abandoned.
Southbound traffic on NW Evangeline Thruway has been shut down at Willow Street.
We will provide additional information once it becomes available.
