A 56-year-old Deville man died following a residential fire Monday afternoon.

The Deville Fire Department responded to the fire in the 100 block of Riley Deville Road in Deville around 11 a.m. on September 28, 2026. Unfortunately, the fire claimed the life of a Rapides Parish man.

The Deville Fire Department requested the investigative services of the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFM). The origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation. SFM investigators determined that the home did not have a working smoke alarm.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with this man’s family and all those who are grieving this tremendous loss,” said State Fire Marshal Chief Chad P. Sonnier. “Tragedies like this remind us just how quickly a fire can become deadly and how important it is to have working smoke alarms in every home. Smoke alarms provide an early warning that can make all the difference, giving occupants precious time to get out safely before a fire and smoke make escape impossible.”

Through the SFM’s Operation Save-A-Life program, residents are eligible to receive free smoke alarms along with professional installation to ensure they are working properly.

For more information about fire safety or to request a free smoke alarm installation, residents are encouraged to contact their local fire department or visit lasfm.org.