Mystery remains: State can't determine cause of NW Ocala house fire that killed woman, 76

State fire officials were unable to find a cause of the fire that claimed the life of an elderly woman in northwest Ocala shortly before Christmas.

According to a report from the Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives, investigators closely examined the residence trying to determine where the fire started. From their investigation, officials said they believe the fire began in the northwest area of the front room. They arrived at that theory after evaluating burn patterns, fire tracking and witness statements.

The team looking into the incident carefully removed some materials from the room, but were unable to pinpoint exactly where the fire originated. Officials said they could not find any evidence of any smoking materials, like cigarettes. No evidence of flammable liquid was found.

"The classification of this fire is undetermined," the report states.

According to the report, on Dec. 8, 2023, Ocala Fire Rescue firefighters were called about smoke coming from the residence at 1905 NW 24th Court.

Local fire officials said when they arrived, they saw heavy smoke and fire coming from the structure, and a large portion of the roof was burned. While on scene, fire officials said someone was trying to break a window. The person told fire crews someone was inside.

Before firefighters got to the scene, neighbors banged on the door, attempting to alert the home's occupant, but were unable to enter the home due to the smoke, fire officials said. Authorities said the home had significant damage.

Fire personnel entered the single-family home and found an occupant face down in the hallway. The individual, a woman, was taken from the home. Outside, firefighters performed CPR on the victim, who was later transported to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where she died.

The deceased was later identified as 76-year-old Constance Belvin. The cause of death was listed as smoke inhalation and the manner of death was an accident, according to the Medical Examiner's Office report.

Belvin's friends

Belvin's neighbor told a Star Banner reporter that she kept to herself and at times sat on her patio. Another friend said Belvin was the mother to two sons, one of whom is deceased.

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A graduate of Howard High School who was raised in Ocala, Belvin was a nice woman who dressed well and was well liked, another friend told the Star Banner.

Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com