Authorities say a fatal fire in Delaware County is the result of careless smoking.

66 year old Phillip Kirk was found in an apartment where he was staying on Benton Avenue in Walton early February 8.

Officials say they found an unattended cigarette left in a couch. The building has been declared a total loss.

The residents of the three other apartments were able to escape unharmed and are being assisted by the American Red Cross, family and friends.

The fire was reported at about 3:30 a.m. and drew firefighters from three departments.

The smoke and fire spread through building and into the attic and officials determined the structure could not be salvaged.

 

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