Tampa Police Identify Victim of House Fire In Tampa

TAMPA, FL – Tampa Police have now identified the homeowner who died when a fire broke out at her home on East Fern Street near Old Seminole Heights Thursday morning, March 8.

Police say Valerie Fleming, 57, died of smoke inhalation while trying to escape the fire at her home at 3405 E. Fern St., Tampa.

According to Tampa Fire Rescue officials, the fire broke out just before 7:30 a.m..

Four Tampa Police officers on patrol nearby were the first to respond. They were able to kick in a locked door, enter the smoke-filled home and remove Fleming who was lying unconscious near the door. She died at the scene.

Three of the police officers suffered smoke inhalation and were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they were treated and released. The fourth officer, Lt. Bryan Hill, was treated at the scene.

In an interview today, Hill said he and his fellow officers didn't give it a second thought when they burst into the burning house. Sadly, he said, the homeowner had nearly reached the door when she passed out from the smoke.

Officials said Fleming lived alone and was the only occupant of the house.

Tampa Fire Rescue officials are still trying to determine the cause of the blaze. They say the fire started in the southeast corner of the home but don't think the fire is suspicious.

Image via Tampa Fire Rescue