Man found dead after late-night house fire in Lemay; investigators say blaze was not suspicious
Fatal fire reported Friday night in the 3600 block of Paule Avenue
A 56-year-old Lemay resident was found dead inside a south St. Louis County home after a late-night house fire Friday, Jan. 23, prompting an investigation by county detectives and the region’s specialized fire-investigation team.
Police said officers from the St. Louis County Police Department’s South County Precinct were dispatched at about 10:20 p.m. to assist with a house fire in the 3600 block of Paule Avenue. When officers arrived, the fire was no longer active. A caller reported that a resident was still inside the home. Officers located the man, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation includes regional Bomb and Arson Unit
Detectives from the St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and the St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit are leading the investigation. Authorities have identified the victim as James Swift, 56, a Lemay resident.
Officials said preliminary findings indicate the fire does not appear suspicious. However, investigators have not determined an exact cause, and the case remains active.
Authorities described the inquiry as ongoing and noted that details could change as additional information becomes available.
What is known so far
When: Friday night, Jan. 23, with the initial police response reported around 10:20 p.m.
Where: 3600 block of Paule Avenue in Lemay, in south St. Louis County.
Outcome: One person, James Swift, 56, was found inside and pronounced dead at the scene.
Status: The cause has not been determined; preliminary findings do not indicate suspicious circumstances.
Why officials still treat it as an active case
Even when early indicators do not suggest criminal activity, fatal residential fires typically require a methodical review of the scene, including origin-and-cause analysis, assessment of building conditions, and evaluation of potential accidental ignition sources. Investigators also work to establish a timeline and confirm who was inside the home at the time of the fire.
Authorities have not released additional details about how the fire started, whether smoke alarms were present or functioning, or whether anyone else was in the residence before the blaze. No further injuries were announced.
Police said more information will be provided if and when it becomes available as the investigation continues.