Lawton couple killed in Monday fire identified

Lawton Fire Chief Jared Williams identified Dean Vellines, 71, and his wife Mattie Vellines, 73, as those who died as a result of the structure fire at their home at 1924 NW Oak on Monday.

“The Lawton Fire Department wishes to express its sincere condolences to the family of Dean and Mattie Vellines,” Williams said in a statement. Their identities were released after next of kin were notified.

Firefighters were called just before noon Monday to the home and arrived to find smoke coming from the back of the home. An officer and firefighter from Engine No. 4 went inside and quickly extinguished the fire. A search found the Vellines.

One person was already dead at the scene and the second was removed from inside and rescue efforts attempted in the backyard. Lawton Fire crews, along with crews from Comanche County Memorial Hospital EMS and Kirks EMS, attempted life-saving efforts, but were unsuccessful.

The Lawton Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation into the cause of the fire and is being assisted by detectives from the Lawton Police Department.

Williams stated the fire’s cause continues to be investigated but at this time there’s no indication it is suspicious in nature.