Space Heater Fire Death in D'Iberville

MS Insurance Press Releases

Published March 24th, 2026

Detected March 25th, 2026

Summary

The Mississippi State Fire Marshal's Office issued a press release on March 24, 2026, identifying a space heater as the cause of a fatal fire in D'Iberville that killed George Lee. The release also provides safety recommendations for home heating equipment and smoke alarms.

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What changed

The Mississippi State Fire Marshal's Office has released information regarding a fatal fire in D'Iberville, Mississippi, on March 23, 2026, which resulted in the death of 77-year-old George Byron Lee. The investigation determined that an electric space heater placed too close to combustible material caused the fire. This incident is one of 33 fire deaths in Mississippi in 2026, with at least four attributed to space heaters.

The press release includes several safety recommendations for the use of space heaters, emphasizing never using them while sleeping or unattended, unplugging them when not in use, ensuring they have a tip-over shut-off switch, and using only UL-approved equipment. It also advises on general fire safety practices, including regular smoke alarm testing and maintenance, and having an evacuation plan. While this is a public safety announcement and not a new regulation, it serves as a reminder for consumers to review and adhere to safe heating practices, especially as weather conditions can still pose risks.

What to do next

Review and implement space heater safety guidelines provided in the press release.
Test smoke alarms monthly and replace them every 10 years.
Develop and practice a family evacuation plan.

Source document (simplified)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 24, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT

Beth Reiss Communications Director State Fire Marshal’s Office beth.reiss@mid.ms.gov 601‐359‐2403

Space Heater to Blame for D’Iberville Fire Death

JACKSON, Miss. – A space heater is to blame for the death of 77‐year‐old George Byron Lee in D’Iberville. The fire was reported on Monday, March 23 around 6:00 p.m. at 4321 West Gay Road. Neighbors noticed smoke stains on the outside of the camper and saw fire damage inside once they opened the door. The Harrison County coroner advised that Lee had been deceased for several days prior to being found. Deputy State Fire Marshals investigated and determined the fire was caused by an electric space heater placed too close to combustible material. There have been 33 fire deaths so far in 2026. At least four of those fires were caused by space heaters. Although the coldest weather may be behind us, please use caution when heating your home.

Never use space heaters while you sleep or in areas where children may be without adult
supervision.
Do not leave space heaters on when you are away from home.
Always unplug space heaters when they are not in use. The heater should also be equipped with a
tip over shut‐off switch.
All heating equipment should be UL® approved and cleaned and inspected by a qualified
professional prior to being used each year.
Inspect the space heater’s power cord for damage, fraying, or heat. If the cord inspection reveals
any of these issues, the heater should be replaced. Proper cleaning is essential and should be done regularly.
Never use a stove or oven to heat living spaces.
Have chimney flues cleaned and inspected by qualified personnel.
Burn only approved materials in a fireplace or wood‐burning stove. Never burn paper or trash in a
fireplace or wood‐burning stove.
Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. Replace all smoke alarms when
they are 10 years old.
Smoke alarms should be placed in every sleeping area and common hallways and on every level of
the home.
Should a fire break out in the home, have an emergency evacuation plan for the family to follow
and have a designated meeting place for all family members.
Once everyone is outside the burning home, call 911 and don’t go back inside the home under any
circumstances. ###