At 8:40 am the Lawrence County Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a possible structure fire on NE 2nd Street in Walnut Ridge. The fire was called in by a neighbor who reported heavy smoke coming from the attic of the home. Walnut Ridge Fire, Walnut Ridge Police, Medic One Ambulance and AET of Walnut Ridge were dispatched to the fire.
According to Walnut Ridge Fire Chief Frank Owens, the fire department arrived on scene and discovered smoke coming from the residence, upon entering the structure firefighters discovered the body of an unidentified occupant inside the home. Fire fighters were able to contain the blaze although the structure sustained heavy damage. Chief Owens stated the investigation is being conducted by the Arkansas State Police into the fatality. The Lawrence County Coroner was notified at 9:20 am, Walnut Ridge Fire remained on standby at the scene after the fire was extinguished to ensure no flare up occurred.
The identity of the deceased has not been released at this time. For more information on the Walnut Ridge Fire Department visit www.walnutridgefd.com .
**updated — according to Walnut Ridge Police detective Ryan Price the victim was identified as 52 year old Timothy Harris.