Man leaves kerosene heater unattended; fire destroys home

Published 8:00 pm Wednesday, November 14, 2018

: Alfred Gaskin watches as Vicksburg Fire Department firefighters work to extinguish a structure fire that occurred around 1:30 p.m. at 1039 Buck Street Wednesday. Gaskin said that he lit a kerosene heater and left to go to McDonald's and the home was smoking when he returned. The fire was contained and no injuries were reported. (Courtland Wells/The Vicksburg Post)

A kerosene heater is believed to be the cause of a fire that heavily damaged a home on Buck Street Wednesday.

The fire occurred about 1:30 p.m. Vicksburg Fire Chief Craig Danczyk said the occupant of the home told firefighters he lit the heater and left to go to McDonald’s. When he returned, the house was on fire, and a Vicksburg police officer responding to the call reported flames coming from the building as he arrived.

The occupant, Alfred Gaskin, said the house was owned by a family member and he was staying there. The house did not have electrical service.

No one was injured.

Engine 6, Ladder 3, Platform 1, rescue and an ambulance responded to the call.

About John Surratt

John Surratt is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a degree in general studies. He has worked as an editor, reporter and photographer for newspapers in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. He has been a member of The Vicksburg Post staff since 2011 and covers city government. He and his wife attend St. Paul Catholic Church and he is a member of the Port City Kiwanis Club.

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