Woonsocket Radio News Room

Rhode Island Candidate for Secretary of State’s House Catches Fire

North Smithfield, R.I. —Stephanie Beauté’s home caught fire last night, fortunately with no injuries.  Stephanie is, a Democratic primary candidate for Secretary of State in Rhode Island, was damaged by a fire Sunday afternoon.

Beauté had the privilege of walking in the kick-off parade for the annual Dominican Festival in Providence earlier that day, and while driving home with her 4-year-old daughter, Beauté received a call at 11:39 PM from Vivint Security to alert her that her home was on fire.

North Smithfield firefighters and investigators were on the scene when Beauté arrived at her residence. Firefighters put out the kitchen fire on the first floor within minutes, limiting damage to other areas of the house. While the house is uninhabitable for at least 3 weeks, per the North Smithfield Fire Department, no one was harmed. 

Beaute´ complimented the North Smithfield firefighters for their quick action and painstaking work to minimize damage to the house.  “Public servants in Rhode Island are taken for granted so often, but this was a first-hand demonstration of how important our First Responders are,” she said.

Beauté planned on hosting a birthday party for her daughter before the fire. The party was moved to the Headquarters Fire Station #2 in North Smithfield where firefighters treated children and parents with a tour of the facility. The children also took turns sitting in firetrucks and were given coloring books as well. 

Stephanie said the North Smithfield’s fire department’s immediate offer of hospitality for the birthday party was a huge hit with the children and she is most grateful for the quick thinking of the Department.

Beauté will meet with Rhode Islanders across the state to address her policies before the September 13 primary.

Beauté is a problem-solver with grit and business experience who will enable confidence in our voting system. As trust in our legislatures and institutions declines, Beauté is committed to integrity and is ready to defend our democracy, expand our fundamental right to vote, and ensure Rhode Island runs fair and honest elections.  Her background in business and technology provides her with common-sense and fair solutions.