It has been determined that the fire originated at a chair in the living room of the apartment. In its investigation the State Fire Marshal's Office eliminated multiple causes of the fire, with the exception of smoking related materials.

"This tragic fire and resulting loss of life is a stark reminder of the importance of knowing and practicing fire safety in the home," Commissioner of Insurance and State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney said.

 "This year the Fire Marshal's Office has investigated 17 fire deaths since Jan. 1,” he said. “This time last year we had only investigated seven fire deaths."

 Fire safety education is a top priority for the State Fire Marshal's Office.  Among the most important fire safety reminders for all Mississippians are: every home should a have a working smoke alarm and every family should practice an escape plan in the event of a fire.

Instructions on how to create a family escape plan can be found on the special Holiday and Heating Fire Safety page of the Mississippi Insurance Department website at www.mid.state.ms.us