A woman died in a “devastating structure fire” in a Sedona mobile home park late on Tuesday, March 12.

The Sedona Fire District responded to a fire at the Sunset Mobile Home Park, between Sunset and Shelby Drives, that was reported at approximately 10:55 p.m., SFD Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction Dori Booth said.

“Sedona Police Department officers, arriving ahead of fire units, swiftly evacuated nearby residences due to the fire’s intensity,” Booth stated.

Upon arrival, SFD crews were met by significant flames engulfing the home and adjacent trees. During operations, crews were informed of a possible occupant still inside the premises.

“Through a determined offensive effort, firefighters located an older adult woman in the home’s rear section,” Booth stated. “She was quickly extricated and transported to a local hospital, where she was sadly pronounced dead.”

“Following the rescue and initial interior attack, firefighters transitioned to a defensive strategy, successfully containing the blaze to the origin structure and safeguarding neighboring homes from damage,” Booth said. “The fire did not spread beyond the initial site.”

Ten fire units and 18 personnel were engaged in the response operation. No firefighter injuries were reported.

The investigation into the fire’s cause is actively underway, led jointly by SPD and SFD.

For further inquiries, contact Booth at (928) 202-7091. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time. The Sedona Fire District remains committed to the safety and well-being of our community,” SFD stated.

Following last night’s response to a devastating structure fire in Sunset Mobile Home Park, the Sedona Fire District provided an update on the ongoing investigation: As of 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 13, investigative teams from the SFD, SPD, Copper Canyon Fire & Medical District, and Verde Valley Fire District continue their meticulous work on-site.

“Their focus remains on identifying the fire’s area of origin and determining its cause,” SFD stated. ” “This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of all agencies involved to uncovering the details of this tragic event.”

A fire investigation “is time-consuming and meticulous work, but it is essential to provide answers to our community and ensure the safety of all residents,” Booth stated. “The Sedona Fire District extends its gratitude to the community for its patience and support during this investigation. Our hearts remain with the family and friends of the deceased, and we are committed to conducting a comprehensive investigation.”

“We thank the Sedona Police Department and Copper Canyon Fire District for their ongoing partnership and efforts in this investigation, she stated.

Secondary Fire

At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 13, SFD crews responded to a secondary fire at the same home. The secondary fire caused significant damage to addition sections of the home creating a more challenging environment in which crews are conducting investigations. 

The secondary fire is now under investigation alongside SPD in addition to the ongoing investigation of the initial fire. Eight fire units and a total of 13 members of SFD responded to the secondary incident.

No firefighter or civilian injuries were reported as a result of the secondary fire. 

“As investigative teams from the Sedona Fire District, Sedona Police Department, Copper Canyon Fire District, and Verde Valley Fire District continue their meticulous work on-site,” Booth stated. “The investigative team’s effort continues to complete the tragic fatal fire from investigation from 3/12/2024, identifying the area of origin and determining the cause of the secondary fire occurring the evening of 3/13/2024, while placing emphasis on the team’s safety in the significantly damaged structure. The tireless effort underscores the commitment of all agencies involved to uncovering the details of this tragic event.”