A Santa Fe family’s home on White Lakes Road was destroyed after catching fire on June 12, 2023.
Karen Rodriguez and her late husband Billy had dreamed of building a home on their property for years. Unfortunately, Billy Godinez died of a heart attack in 2018. Rodriguez pursued the construction project on her own, and was completed in March of 2023.
But more tragedy was to come for Karen Rodriguez. The family’s dream home was destroyed by a fire in early June that left her with severe burns and killed her 27-year-old son, Cody Godinez. The blaze remains under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, Rodriguez’ daughter Desiree Godinez, 31, said that she had unsuccessfully tried to obtain insurance for the Santa Fe County home.
After her rescue, Rodriguez was rushed to the University of New Mexico’s Hospital and was met by her children Desiree, Jacob, and Harley Godinez. The siblings have reportedly been caring for their mother, who has been released from the hospital. Rodriguez is currently recovering from her wounds as well as coping with the death of her youngest son.
“It’s devastating that the Godinez family is now struggling with grief over another sudden passing as a result of this deadly fire,” said Brian Colón, Santa Fe fire incident attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “Although the fire is still being investigated, it is crucial to note that this was a recently developed home, there should have been no doubt that the home would have been a safe haven for the family. My thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate this difficult situation.”
If you or someone you love has been injured in a Santa Fe fire incident, call the attorneys at Singleton Schreiber at 505-605-2076, or email them at info@singletonschreiber.com.
Deadly Santa Fe House Fires
Santa Fe, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage, has unfortunately been affected by a series of devastating house fires in recent years. These incidents have claimed lives, destroyed homes, and left the community grappling with grief and loss.
The surge in deadly house fires in Santa Fe has become a matter of grave concern for local authorities and residents alike. The incidents have occurred across various neighborhoods, cutting across socioeconomic lines, and leaving no part of the city untouched. Each fire represents a tragic loss of life and leaves scars on the community that can take years to heal.
While every fire has its own unique set of circumstances, several common causes and contributing factors have emerged from investigations. Electrical malfunctions, such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, have been identified as leading causes of house fires. Aging infrastructure, combined with the increased use of electronic devices in modern households, has heightened the risk of electrical fires.
The consequences of these deadly house fires are profound and far-reaching. First and foremost, lives are tragically lost, leaving families and communities shattered. The emotional toll on survivors and witnesses cannot be underestimated, as the trauma of witnessing such disasters can have long-lasting effects on mental well-being.
In addition to the loss of life, the destruction of homes and personal belongings is a devastating blow. Many families find themselves displaced, grappling with the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from the ashes. The financial burden and logistical challenges that follow can further compound the difficulties faced by those affected.
Amidst the heartbreak and devastation, it is crucial to focus on fire prevention and mitigation strategies. Santa Fe’s local authorities, in collaboration with fire departments and community organizations, have been actively raising awareness about fire safety. Initiatives such as public education campaigns, free smoke alarm installations, and fire safety workshops are essential in equipping residents with the knowledge and tools to prevent fires, or react appropriately in the event of an emergency.
Fire safety measures such as regular electrical inspections, the installation of smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, and practicing fire drills at home are crucial steps individuals can take to safeguard their households. Furthermore, fostering a culture of vigilance and responsibility within the community can significantly contribute to reducing the risk of house fires as well.
“It’s important that anyone affected by a house fire or any type of fire incident seeks out legal recommendations from an experienced attorney in order to navigate the legal complexities that may arise,” added Mr. Colón. “Those involved should not have to navigate complicated liability matters on top of trying to recover from injury, emotional distress, and in some unfortunate cases, grief.”
If you or someone you love has been injured in a Santa Fe fire incident, call the attorneys at Singleton Schreiber at 505-605-2076, or email them at info@singletonschreiber.com.
