Vicksburg city employee dies in Marian Lane house fire

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — A city employee died from smoke inhalation during a house fire Monday evening on Marian Lane, according to Warren County Deputy Coroner Daryl Carson.

The victim, 53-year-old John Claud Owen, was found unresponsive inside the home and pronounced dead at the scene.

Just after 6 p.m. Monday, June 17, the Vicksburg Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 338 Marian Lane. According to Vicksburg Fire Chief Derrick Stamps, a neighbor reported seeing smoke coming from the home.

Firefighters arrived to find flames and heavy smoke coming from the building. Crews contained the blaze to the bathroom, where Owen was located.

“At 6:09 p.m., the Vicksburg Fire Department responded to a significant structure fire at 338 Marian Lane,” said Stamps. “Upon arrival, fire crews encountered a dramatic scene: thick smoke billowing from all sides of the building, with vibrant flames leaping through the roof. The firefighters quickly contained the blaze to the bathroom. Inside, they discovered an unresponsive male who had tragically succumbed to smoke inhalation.”

Mayor George Flaggs Jr. and Mayor-elect Willis Thompson released statements mourning the loss.

“It is with great sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of a dedicated member of the City of Vicksburg team,” said Flaggs. “His  commitment to public service reflected the very best of our municipal workforce. On behalf of the City of Vicksburg, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. We are grateful for his years of service and the lasting impact he made on our community. He will be truly missed.”

“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of our devoted city employees in a house fire last night,” Thompson said. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and coworkers during this incredibly tragic time. May God grant peace and strength to all who knew him. Please join me in prayer as we mourn the loss of one of our own today in Vicksburg.”