The man killed in a Monday evening fire has been identified as Vicksburg resident John Owen.

At 6:09 p.m. Monday, the Vicksburg Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 338 Marian Lane. Upon arrival, Vicksburg Fire Chief Derrick Stamps said fire crews encountered visible smoke from all sides of the structure, with flames erupting through the roof. Firefighters contained the blaze to the bathroom. Stamps said that, “Inside, they discovered an unresponsive male who had tragically succumbed to smoke inhalation.”

Stamps identified the man as Owen. Owen had been an employee of the city of Vicksburg traffic department serving as Assistant Traffic Supervisor.

“It is with great sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of a dedicated member of the City of Vicksburg team,” said Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs Jr. “His  commitment to public service reflected the very best of our municipal workforce. On behalf of the city of Vicksburg, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. We are grateful for his years of service and the lasting impact he made on our community. He will be truly missed.”

“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of our devoted city employees in a house fire last night,” said Mayor-elect Willis Thompson. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and coworkers during this incredibly tragic time. May God grant peace and strength to all who knew him. Please join me in prayer as we mourn the loss of one of our own today in Vicksburg.”

Stamps said that at this time, the cause of the fire is undetermined and that Owen’s body is being sent to the state crime lab for an autopsy.