Dr. Karen Elizabeth Ruthman dies in fatal Plantation residential fire

Dr. Karen Elizabeth Ruthman dies in fatal Plantation residential fire

Fatal Plantation fire death of Dr. Karen Elizabeth Ruthman – Obituary

A tragic fire erupted early Thursday morning at a residence in Plantation, resulting in the death of local doctor Dr. Karen Elizabeth Ruthman. The blaze, which started around the 12300 block of Northwest 23rd Court near Sawgrass Mills Mall, was quickly responded to by fire crews who contained the flames in the kitchen area. Upon entering the home, responders found Dr. Ruthman, who worked as a family practice physician in Weston. Despite receiving on-site medical attention, she was transported to the hospital, where she later passed away.

Neighbors, including longtime friend Noel True, were devastated by the news. True described Dr. Ruthman as a warm and caring individual, expressing disbelief over the sudden loss. He recalled arriving at the scene, initially unaware that it was the Ruthman residence, and learning of the tragedy shortly after. Dr. Ruthman’s husband, an OB-GYN, was not present at the time of the fire.

The employees at Dr. Ruthman’s office in Weston are said to be in shock, deeply mourning the loss of their colleague. Meanwhile, FPL crews were called to shut off power to the home to allow for a thorough investigation into the fire’s cause. Authorities have not yet determined what started the blaze, and the area remains under investigation.