Lyall Smith Obituary, Death – A retired Tumwater fire captain lost his life in a house fire early Monday morning, according to a Facebook post from the Olympia Firefighter Alumni Network. The victim was identified as Lyall Smith, a former member of the Tumwater Fire Department’s Firehouse 5.
The McLane Black Lake Fire Department responded to reports of a residential fire on the 3000 block of Sapp Road Southwest in Tumwater at approximately 7:14 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found a double-wide mobile home fully engulfed in flames. The fire had also spread to the adjacent carport and multiple nearby vehicles.
Fire crews immediately began efforts to control the blaze. As they worked to extinguish the flames, neighbors informed responders that the homeowner was likely still inside the burning structure. That individual was later confirmed to be Smith.
Firefighters entered the building in search of the occupant and were eventually able to remove Smith from the home. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the fire. The McLane Black Lake Fire Department is leading the investigation, working in coordination with the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office. At this time, no official cause has been released, and it remains unclear what may have started the blaze.
Several other emergency agencies provided assistance during the incident, including the Tumwater Fire Department, East Olympia Fire District 6, and the West Thurston Regional Fire Authority. Their combined response helped contain the fire and ensure it didn’t spread further into the surrounding area.
Smith’s passing has deeply affected the local firefighting community. As a former fire captain, he was well-known and respected among colleagues. His tragic death, especially under such circumstances, has prompted messages of remembrance and condolences from fellow firefighters and community members.
The loss has served as a powerful reminder of the risks associated with fires, even for those who once dedicated their lives to fighting them. While retired, Smith’s legacy within the department and the broader community remains strong, and many are mourning the death of a man who had spent his career helping others.
The investigation into the fire continues, and officials may release more information as new details emerge. For now, the community is left grieving the death of a former first responder who tragically lost his life in the type of emergency he had once faced many times throughout his career.
