Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) — A rural Cass County home south of Horace was the scene of a deadly fire Wednesday evening, according to investigators.
Officials say a 64-year-old woman was found dead inside the damaged house after the fire was brought under control.
Homeowner Returns to Find House Filled With Smoke
According to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, the fire was reported after the homeowner came back to the property.
The homeowner discovered the residence full of smoke and called for help.
First responders and fire crews rushed to the scene in the rural area south of Horace.
Firefighters contained the flames soon after they arrived.
Preliminary observations showed that most of the fire damage was inside the structure, officials said.
Victim Found Inside; Name Not Yet Released
After crews entered the home, they found a woman deceased inside the residence.
Authorities say she was 64 years old.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office is not releasing her name until family members are fully notified.
Officials have not said if anyone else was inside the house when the fire started.
There were no immediate reports of injuries to firefighters or other responders.
Cause of Fire Still Under Investigation
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office is working with the North Dakota State Fire Marshal’s Office to study the scene.
Southern Valley Fire and Rescue is also assisting with the investigation and scene control.
Officials say they are reviewing fire patterns and damage inside the structure.
They may also gather statements from neighbors and the homeowner.
The sheriff’s office says more information will be released when it becomes available.
Multiple Agencies Respond to Rural Fire Scene
Several agencies were called to help fight the fire and support the response.
Those agencies included the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Southern Valley Fire & Rescue, and the West Fargo Fire Department.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol also responded to assist with traffic and scene safety.
Medical crews from Sanford Ambulance were on scene as well.
Southern Valley Fire and Rescue remained at the property after the fire was out.
The department kept control of the scene while investigators worked inside and around the home.
Officials remind residents to check smoke alarms and review fire escape plans, especially during the winter heating season.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
