Update on Moscow, Idaho Residential Fire of July 18

On July 18, 2017 the Moscow Fire Department responded to a residential fire in the 1000 block of Camas Street in Moscow, Idaho. Responding units found heavy smoke coming from the residence.  Upon entry, fire personnel found an unresponsive female inside the residence on the couch in the living room with suspected smoke inhalation.  The female has since been identified as Arlene K. Willenborg-Cowin. Willenborg-Corwin succumbed to her injuries on July 18, 2017.
 
Further investigation has concluded that the fire was accidental in nature. It was determined to have originated in a plastic trash receptacle in the kitchen near the cabinets where the fire quickly spread to additional combustible material.  This created heavy smoke conditions that were encountered upon entering the residence. It has also been determined that the smoke detectors were operational, however they were located in the bedroom areas and the doors to the bedrooms were closed at the time of the fire.
 
The Moscow Fire Department responded to the 9:49 a.m. immediately.  The first engine arrived at 9:52 a.m. and was met with smoke coming from the eves of the residence.  At that time it was unknown if any occupants were inside the home. The engine crew made entry into the residence and performed a search which resulted in the rescue of one female victim from the living room area. Also on scene were additional fire personnel, two paramedics, four emergency medical technicians (EMT) and other emergency medical services (EMS) personnel as well as an awaiting ambulance. The total responding personnel was 22 individuals with 2 fire engines, 3 ambulances, and a medic unit.  City of Moscow response included the Moscow Police and Public Works Departments.  The Idaho State Fire Marshall’s Office were also on scene.