PINEVILLE - A man was found dead in his home after it burnt nearly to the ground.

Deputies with the State Fire Marshal's Office are investigating a house fire on Barthel Road in Pineville early Tuesday morning. A fire department arrived on the scene and found the body of a male victim inside, according to state marshals.

Officials identification and cause of death are pending further investigation, but the man is believed to be the 75-year-old homeowner. 

State Fire Marshal deputies found that the fire started in the carport of the home, but have not been able to determine an exact cause. However, deputies said they "have not been able to rule out" the possibility of an electrical problem. 

Deputies also said they have been unable to confirm the presence of a working smoke alarm in the home. 

"Smoke alarms are proven to give families critical seconds to escape safely from a fire emergency," the State Fire Marshal said.