SAN CARLOS PARK, FL — Authorities are investigating a fatal house fire in San Carlos Park as a suspected suicide after one person was found dead inside the home Wednesday morning.
The fire occurred on the 17000 block of Caloosa Trace Circle, just steps away from San Carlos Park Elementary School. According to emergency responders, the blaze broke out around 9 a.m., prompting a swift response from the San Carlos Park Fire Protection and Rescue Service District.
Neighbors reported hearing a loud explosion moments before thick, black smoke began billowing from the home. “It was a really loud boom. Then the smoke just started pouring out,” said one resident, who lives nearby.
San Carlos Park Elementary School, located just around the corner, was briefly placed on a “secure” status as a precaution. School officials confirmed that all access points were locked and students were kept indoors while classes continued as normal.
Officials have confirmed that one person, unofficially identified as Mike McCarty, died in the fire. His identity has not been officially released by authorities pending next of kin notification. Investigators are treating the incident as a possible suicide, though a final determination is pending further investigation and a medical examiner’s report.
Fire investigators and local law enforcement remain on the scene, combing through debris and collecting evidence to determine the precise cause and timeline of the incident.
“This is a tragic event for the community,” said a spokesperson for the fire district. “We are working closely with law enforcement to understand what happened and ensure the safety of nearby residents.”
This remains an active and developing story. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.