At 0525 Crowders Mountain Fire, Union Road and Gastonia Fire was dispatched to Ridge Ave off 321 for a reported structure fire. First arriving members reported heavy fire visible from the rear of the structure. Relatives on scene advised there was an occupant still inside. Attack lines were stretched and an aggressive interior attack was made while a primary search was attempted. The victim was located in the kitchen of the house. The Gaston County Fire Marshal's Office investigated and determined the cause to be a discarded cigarette.