One person is dead following a structure fire in Independence early Thursday morning.

Independence Fire-EMS responded to a report of a structure fire, with possible entrapment, in the 500 block of North 24th just after 9:00 am. Crews responded, and immediately performed search and rescue. However, the victim was found deceased.

Independence Rural Fire and Cheryvale Fire-EMS assisted in putting out the blaze. The fire is being investigated by the Independence Police Department and the Kansas Fire Marshall Office. No injuries were reported by any personnel fighting the fire.