One dead in Clovis fire

Freedom New Mexico

Police believe a 73-year-old man found dead in a burning mobile home early Monday morning died from smoke inhalation.

Firefighters responded to 917 Delta Street around 4:30 a.m. for a report of a structure fire, according to Clovis Fire Chief Ray Westerman.

Westerman said half of the residence was fully engulfed in flames and had begun collapsing.

Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze quickly and discovered a deceased male at the opposite end of the residence during a search.

“There was no hope for the occupant when we arrived; no hope for resuscitation or rescue,” Westerman said.

Police Chief Steve Sanders said all indications point to an electrical fire and there was evidence to suggest the man was awake and trying to get out before the smoke overtook him.

“There were definitely signs that he was awake when the fire started and he succumbed to the smoke… (And) there were definitely signs that he tried to get out of the trailer,” Sanders said. “He just never made it to the opening of the trailer.”

Medical investigators have yet to formally conclude what caused the man’s death, Sanders said.

Sanders said the man’s identity is being withheld pending notification to next of kin.

Westerman said the cause of the fire is being investigated by the state fire marshal.