Smoke detectors likely not working in double-fatal fire

MOSINEE – Investigators believe smoke detectors were not working at the time of a house fire in Mosinee that claimed the lives of a brother and sister on Thursday.

"In residential fires, most times people are alerted by their smoke detectors," said Josh Klug, chief of the Mosinee Fire District.

Investigators do not yet know the cause of the fire but believe it began in the kitchen of the duplex on Hall Street in Mosinee, based on the amount of damage in that room.

"We haven't put all the pieces together yet because we're still waiting for some information from the state Fire Marshal's Office," Klug said.

The investigation has been turned over to the state, as often happens after fatal fires, he said.

It remained unclear Wednesday exactly why Neatha Carwile, 68, and Hershel "Fred" Bauman, 75, both of Mosinee, were unable to escape, but Klug said that Bauman had physical limitations that might have made it difficult for him to get out.

The main entrance to the duplex in which Bauman lived was around the back of the home and involved a series of steps. The front door to the home, which opened onto the street level, was blocked by snow and even firefighters could not get in that way, Klug said.

At the time of the fire, Carwile was there caring for Bauman, her brother, he said.

She made the call to 911 that alerted emergency responders to the fire.

Klug said it appeared from reports that Bauman was found in his bedroom and Carwile was found in the living room.

Both were transported by ambulance to Aspirus Wausau Hospital and were later pronounced dead. Preliminary autopsy results indicate they died of smoke inhalation, according to a previous news release from the Mosinee Police Department.

Investigators hope to have more information about the cause of the fire next week.

The fire at 599 Hall St. in Mosinee was reported at 4:56 p.m. on Feb. 12. Two adults and their grandchild who were in the lower apartment of the duplex were able to escape safely, Mosinee police said previously.

Klug reminded the public to keep doors and fire hydrants clear of snow, to be careful with portable heating devices and ensure that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. He also encouraged residents to call the Mosinee Fire District with questions or to ask for help putting up smoke detectors.

"We would much rather go to somebody's house and help them put up a smoke detector ... than respond to their house for a fire," he said.

Alison Dirr can be reached at 715-845-0658. Find her on Twitter as @AlisonDirr

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