MARTINSVILLE, Va. (WSET) — Flames and heavy smoke tore through a home in the 200 block of Fayette Street Tuesday morning, tragically killing a man in the process.

The Martinsville Fire Department said they were dispatched to the scene shortly before 2:30 a.m. Fire Chief Dan Howell said when they arrived at the scene, police told crews that someone was inside.

They said when they went in to find the person, they found the victim dead in the building. It took them about 5 to 6 hours to put out the fire.

“They located the victim quickly, but from that point, with the heavy involvement of the rest of the building and the risk of further collapse, it was only a matter of time before they could make it safe enough to remove all the debris and get the victim out. Chief Howell said.

Members of the community drove by the house amazed at how much damage the fire had caused. Kerry Smith was one of them.

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“I didn’t expect it to be a tragedy. I thought the building was on fire.” Smith said.

Officials are not naming the victim until he is identified. Kerry Smith owns the funeral home across the street. He knew the victim and described him as a kind person who was loved by the community.

“I remember him as a very pleasant guy, not outgoing, very much to himself.” Smith said: “An outstanding citizen in the community, a member of the local church, the Methodist church next door, who sang in the choir and on the board, a very nice guy and so sad to hear of his passing.”

“Tragedies always happen, but this time of year makes them worse. Sometimes the crew takes it personally,” Chief Howell said.

According to Chief Howell, the fire department says the fire is accidental. He found several possible causes. Until he rules them out, the cause is undetermined.

Firefighters say it’s important to make sure you have working smoke detectors in your home. If not, you can go to the Martinsville Fire Department to get one. Chief Howell also noted that it is important for families to practice fire safety drills and not leave the stove and oven unattended while cooking.