Risa Rodriguez dies in fatal Jefferson County FIRE
Fatal Jefferson County FIRE death of Risa Rodriguez
Following the tragic incident at the Jefferson County Housing Authority complex on Tuesday evening, the Jefferson County Coroner, Roger Hayse, officially confirmed the identity of the deceased. The woman involved is identified as Risa Rodriguez, a resident of Short Street #12, aged 64. Her spouse, Craig, sustained serious injuries during the event. Both individuals were transported initially to a local medical facility in Mount Vernon, where Risa unfortunately passed away. Craig was subsequently evacuated by air ambulance to a specialized hospital in St. Louis for further care. A third person, visibly distressed due to the fire, was also brought to the hospital for evaluation, though no severe harm was reported.
According to the Mount Vernon Fire Chief, Chris Yannie, emergency responders arrived at the scene within a few moments of receiving the alert and discovered a blaze inside an apartment unit. The first responders initiated a search operation before deploying water lines, entering via a window to gain access. Members of the Mount Vernon Fire Department, alongside assistance from Jefferson Fire Protection personnel, identified the first victim shortly after breaching the structure. During a thorough examination, they located a second victim, who was carefully moved out through the main entry point. The fire suppression efforts involved utilizing a pre-connected water line, which effectively contained the flames to a single room. However, smoke spread to other areas of the one-story building, affecting several units. The State Fire Marshal’s office has begun an investigation to determine the origin of the fire. Meanwhile, Kell and Woodlawn Firemen are on standby for any subsequent emergencies. The Mount Vernon Fire Department has extended their deepest sympathies to the affected family and continues to pray for the swift recovery of the injured individual.
