A residential fire that left one dead is under investigation. Firefighters arrived at the home at 1022 W. Edwards around 7:30 p.m. Thursday to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the left side of the structure. Reports indicate that a bystander had kicked in the front door and pounded on windows attempting to alert anyone inside but was unsuccessful. The fire was contained to the first-floor kitchen and back porch areas, and firefighters found a person, already deceased, in the area of the home most affected by the fire. After the fire was extinguished, the scene was turned over to arson investigators.

The female victim has been identified as Shirley Birkman, of Springfield. An autopsy was done, and preliminary findings suggest Ms. Birkman died from carbon monoxide intoxication from smoke inhalation. The death remains under investigation by the Sangamon County Coroner and the Springfield Fire Department.