Eunice Man Dies in Early Morning House Fire

Darrell Rigmaiden, 55, perished in the blaze on Mill Street

Mar. 21, 2026 at 9:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 55-year-old Eunice, Louisiana man named Darrell Rigmaiden died in an early morning house fire on Saturday. The Eunice Fire Department responded to the fire on Mill Street around 1:35 a.m. and found heavy smoke and flames coming from the kitchen area. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the majority of the fire but unfortunately found Rigmaiden deceased inside the home.

Why it matters

House fires are a leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States, with the elderly and those living alone at higher risk. This tragic incident highlights the importance of fire safety education and prevention efforts in the local Eunice community.

The details

According to Eunice Fire Chief Chaise Brown, the initial 911 call indicated an occupant was still inside the home when firefighters arrived on the scene. Crews deployed hoses and made entry, finding heavy smoke and flames in the kitchen area. They were able to quickly extinguish most of the fire but sadly discovered Rigmaiden's body inside. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it appears to have originated from the stove in the kitchen.

  • The fire was reported at 1:35 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
  • Firefighters arrived on the scene at 1:39 a.m.

The players

Darrell Rigmaiden

A 55-year-old Eunice resident who perished in the early morning house fire.

Chaise Brown

The Eunice Fire Chief who provided details about the fire response and investigation.

Eunice Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the emergency call and battled the blaze.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Eunice Fire Department would like to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Rigmaiden, our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of such tragic loss.”

— Chaise Brown, Eunice Fire Chief

What’s next

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal's office has been called in to continue the investigation into the exact cause of the fire.

The takeaway

This devastating house fire serves as a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety and prevention efforts, especially for elderly residents who may be more vulnerable. The Eunice community will need to come together to support the family and friends of Mr. Rigmaiden during this difficult time.