Fatal GF house fire ruled accidental

Investigators have ruled Saturday’s fatal fire in north Grand Forks as an accident.  The Grand Forks Fire Department says the blaze that resulted in the death of        40-year old Sarah Marie Gatica was caused by a smoldering cigarette that ignited combustible materials next to a bed.

Grand Fork Police and fire personnel were called to the home at 2120 10th Avenue North shortly after 2:00 a.m.  A second resident of the home was rescued through a side window and treated for smoke inhalation.

The GFFD reports the bedroom sustained moderate damage. There was smoke and heat damage throughout the main floor.

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The Grand Forks Fire Department urges residents to follow these fire safety steps:

    -Properly dispose of smoking materials in a non-combustible container.

    -Ensure working smoke detectors are present and regularly replace the batteries.

    -Implement an emergency plan for your home and practice it regularly.