The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) is investigating a fatal residential fire that claimed the life of a Coushatta woman.

At approximately 9:18 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, the Red River Parish Fire District responded to a reported house fire in the 1800 block of Abney Street in Coushatta. A 75-year-old woman died in the fire. Her 43-year-old son was treated for smoke inhalation and survived.

SFM investigators determined the residence did not have a working smoke alarm at the time of the fire. The cause and origin remain under active investigation.

The SFM is using this tragic incident to remind residents across Louisiana of the life-saving importance of working smoke alarms.

“Fire-related deaths are always devastating, and many are preventable,” said DPS Principal Assistant, Chief Bryan J. Adams. “Working smoke alarms provide families with the critical early warning needed to escape safely. Through our Operation Save-A-Life program, we offer free smoke alarms and installation to help ensure every household has this essential protection.”

For more information about fire safety or to request a free smoke alarm installation, visit lasfm.org or contact your local fire department.