Last Thursday, December 16, Russell Springs Fire Department was called out to a house fire at 74 Clara Lane in Russell Springs.

Flames were visible from the windows of the mobile home and heavy smoke blanketed the area.

The trailer, owned by James and Linda Selby, was home to the couple, their daughter, and granddaughter.

Russell Springs EMS also responded to the scene but there were no injuries so no one was treated.

"James was the only one home at the time of the fire," said Russell Springs Fire Chief H.M. Bottom.

"He escaped without injury."

Bottom said firefighters were on the scene an hour and a half but were unable to save the structure.

He said an investigation is still underway and no cause for the fire has been determined.

Displaced from their home, the family spent Thursday night with James Selby's mother, Susie Selby, except Selby himself who stayed overnight with a friend, Bottom said.

The following day, James Selby was found near the burned out home with a self inflicted gunshot wound.

At 12:10 p.m. December 17, James Selby was pronounced dead at the scene by Russell County Coroner Larry Skaggs.

Skaggs said he believes Selby was despondent about the loss of his belongings and home.

"I feel like his depressed state is the reason he took his life," said Skaggs.

"His house had burned and lots of people have a very difficult time with that kind of loss."

Both Bottom and Skaggs expressed concern for the family at the tragic loss of not only their home but more importantly, their loved one.

"I hope anyone who feels they have nowhere to turn will get help to support them in their time of need," said Skaggs.

"There's always hope as long as there is life."

Bottom said anyone who would like to contribute clothes and other personal items to help the family may do so by contacting Susie Selby at 270-507-7107.

Anyone who is considering suicide can receive help by calling the Adanta Crisis line at 1-800-633-5599.