An Emporium man died as a result of an early morning fire in his home last Friday morning. Armand Venture, 88, was asphyxiated due to smoke inhalation, according to Cameron County Coroner Ted Walters. Emporium-based state police said the fire at 2361 Rich Valley Road was reported at 7:15. It was traced to an electrical malfunction. The home was severely damaged. Venture was the owner and lone occupant of the home. About 30 firefighters from Emporium and eight from St. Marys responded to the alarm. Emporium Ambulance, Emporium Borough crew and the Fire Department Auxiliary assisted at the scene.