Investigators don’t yet know what caused a large fire in St. Helena Parish that destroyed the home of the father of actor, director and comedian Tyler Perry.
Sheriff Nat Williams said the home is located in Greensburg. He added the fire was reported around 8 p.m.
Williams said Emmitt Perry, Tyler Perry’s father, was home at the time and reported hearing some popping or crackling sounds coming from the attic. Fortunately, he made it out safely.
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According to Williams, a few different fire departments responded to the blaze. He added crews let the fire burn itself out because there was nothing more they could do.
Brant Thompson with the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal said the preliminary indication is that the fire originated in one of the “higher levels of building.” However, they are still working to determine the cause.
“Still in the early stages of the investigation,” Thompson said.
He said investigators were on scene throughout Monday night and Tuesday. He added they will return early Wednesday as their investigation continues.
The house is a total loss.
Source: WAFB
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