PINE RIDGE, S.D. – Authorities are investigating a fatal structure fire that broke out Monday morning in the Old Crazy Horse housing community.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety (OST DPS) confirmed that emergency responders from multiple agencies arrived on the scene to find the residence engulfed. Crews worked to contain the blaze, evacuate nearby homes, and secure the surrounding area to ensure the safety of the neighborhood.

During a search of the structure, officials located a deceased individual inside the residence. The identity of the victim has not been released at this time.

The cause of the fire remains under active investigation. Due to the nature of the incident, federal and local investigators are processing the scene to determine the circumstances surrounding the start of the fire.

OST DPS officials have requested that the community avoid the immediate area of the Old Crazy Horse community while investigators complete their work.

“Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected,” the department stated in a release.

Additional information is expected to be released as the investigation continues. This story is developing and will be updated as more details become available to the Rapid City area.