Lakeport woman accused of negligence in fatal fire last summer

The woman is suspected of smoking while using oxygen for medical purposes, police said, causing a fire.|
MARTIN ESPINOZA
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

An arrest warrant was issued Thursday for a Lakeport woman police said was negligent in a multiunit structure fire at Lakeview Senior Apartments last summer that killed another resident.

Tracey Renee Morales, 62, who was cited to appear in court June 20, is suspected of smoking while using oxygen for medical purposes, Police Chief Brad Rasmussen said. The use of oxygen near flame or sparks is dangerous, he said.

“It could cause a flash fire to start because oxygen burns,” Rasmussen said.

The Aug. 21 fire at 525 Bevins St. claimed the life of Deborah Dianne Dowdy, 53, who died of apparent smoke inhalation. The warrant comes after an extensive investigation by the Lakeport Fire Protection District and Lakeport Police Department.

On Thursday, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office issued Morales a notice to appear in court. She was not arrested because of a medical condition.

You can reach Staff Writer Martin Espinoza at 707-521-5213.

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