BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A tragic house fire in Birmingham claimed the life of a 71-year-old woman early Thursday morning. The incident occurred on the 1200 block of 4th Terrace West, where firefighters responded shortly after 1:26 a.m., according to Birmingham Fire & Rescue officials.
Upon arriving at the scene, fire crews found Sharon Ellis Bowie inside the burning home. She was quickly removed from the residence and rushed to UAB Hospital for emergency treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Bowie sadly passed away at around 7:50 a.m. due to injuries sustained in the fire.
The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Marshal’s Office is actively investigating the incident to determine the cause and origin of the fire. As of now, it is unclear what sparked the blaze, and no additional details have been released regarding the extent of the damage or if others were inside the home at the time.
Neighbors reported seeing heavy smoke and flames coming from the house during the early morning hours. Some described the moment firefighters arrived and rushed to enter the building in an effort to save anyone trapped inside. Bowie was reportedly living in the home alone, but officials have not confirmed that detail.
Sharon Ellis Bowie’s death marks a somber moment for the local community. She is remembered by those who knew her as a kind and caring woman who had lived in the neighborhood for many years. Friends and neighbors are now mourning her loss and expressing support for her family.
Fire officials are urging all residents to check their smoke detectors and ensure they are working properly, especially as temperatures rise and fire risks increase during the summer months. More information on the investigation will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with knowledge related to the incident is asked to contact Birmingham Fire & Rescue or the Fire Marshal’s Office.
