From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — A fatality occurred in an early morning house fire on County Road 74 in the Mount Vernon Community.

The fire was reported at approximately 2:30 am. There were three occupants in the house. Two of the residents made it out alive, while a third was found deceased. The Sand Rock, Dogtown, and Centre Fire Departments responded, along with the DeKalb County and Cherokee County Sheriff’s Offices.  

The victim has been identified as Wilma Green Dover, 75 of Sand Rock.

The residence was situated on the DeKalb /Cherokee County line, and is currently being investigated by both Sheriff’s Offices as well as the State Fire Marshall. No foul play is suspected at this time.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “This is a tragic event and our department has this family in our prayers as they try to cope with this tragedy.”

“I encourage everyone to pray for this family and come together in support of their needs,” he continued.

“I also want to thank Sand Rock, Dogtown, Leesburg, Tucker's Chapel, and Centre Fire Departments for assisting, as well as the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the State Fire Marshall,” said Welden.

“God Bless,” concluded Sheriff Welden.