Meadow Lane Fire Fatality

The Chattanooga Fire Department is releasing new details in connection with a recent East Chattanooga house fire. After receiving information from the Medical Examiner’s Office, investigators can now reveal that the accidental blaze claimed the life of a man living in the home. The fire started because a burner on the stove was left on. One man escaped the burning home without injury, but his roommate, Caleb Larkins, 32, did not make it out. The call came out 4:17 AM on 6/30/23 to a home in the 3900 block of Meadow Lane. A black column of smoke was visible as crews rushed to the location. Red Shift companies found the residence fully involved on arrival with flames coming out of every window and through the roof. A defensive attack was launched with 2.5” lines. A deck gun was used and then a ladder was positioned for a master stream. At one point, the roof collapsed and the floors crumbled. The structure was unstable and unsafe for firefighters to enter. Companies continued targeting hot spots throughout the morning. The Fire Investigation Division responded, along with Engine 15, Quint 6, Engine 4 and Battalion 3. Firefighters were on the scene for several hours working to fully extinguish the blaze. They located the victim in a bedroom and the Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Mr. Larkins passed away as a result of the fire. The CFD offers our condolences to his family and friends.

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