MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Miami-Dade police are investigating after a man was found dead inside a home Tuesday morning after a fire erupted inside, authorities confirmed to Local 10 News.
According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, firefighters extinguished the fire at the single-story home in the 15800 block of Southwest 143rd Court.
Miami-Dade police Detective Luis Sierra confirmed that the victim was found dead during an inspection of the residence.
The victim’s son identified him as 68-year-old Kenneth Mark Pirraglia.
“I love my father with all my heart,” he said. “My father will always be my hero.”
Anthony Pirraglia said he got a call Tuesday morning while working his overnight security job and was told there had been a fire at his home and that he needed to come speak to police.
“I kinda knew what happened before it happened,” he said. “I kept asking, ‘Is my father OK?’ They couldn’t give me an answer -- worst feeling in the world.”
Anthony Pirraglia said he doesn’t know why his father, whom he described as a former player and announcer for Miami Jai-Alai, was unable to escape the fire.
“Maybe (he) attempted to get out of the house and he couldn’t make it,” he said.
Kenneth Pirraglia lost his wife several years ago. His son said he tore his ACL several months ago and that he was alone at the time of the fire.
“I’ve been his caretaker for five years,” Anthony Pirraglia said.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and Miami-Dade police were at the scene for hours Tuesday, but the cause of the fire is still unknown.
“He’ll truly be missed,” Anthony Pirraglia said. “Hopefully we can figure out what happened.”
Anthony Pirraglia said he is seeking assistance finding housing and asked anyone who can help to call him at 786-238-0535.