Displaced elderly couple staying at hotel
By Jason Arndt
Staff Writer
Authorities could not determine what caused a fire that destroyed a home on Sunset Drive in Twin Lakes, and displaced, an elderly couple on Aug. 24.
The couple, identified as Donna and Gregory Pufahl, 70 and 69, respectively, had been away from the single-family home when the fire started.
“Based on the overall investigation of this fire loss to date, including the scene examination, witness interviews, and knowledge of fire behavior, this fire is being classified as undetermined,” according to a statement released by Twin Lakes Police Capt. Dennis Linn.
While authorities were unable to identify the cause, investigators discovered the fire started in a southeast bedroom, beneath a bed.
However, after investigators could not find any ignition sources, they closed the case, the statement added.
The fire started before 12:15 p.m., and sparked warning sirens throughout the Village of Twin Lakes, which required mutual aid from eight area departments.
While authorities were en route, an 80-year-old man attempting to save two of the couple’s cats suffered minor burns when he attempted to gain entry.
When authorities arrived, they discovered the home engulfed in flames, and that one of two cats died in the blaze.
Since then, investigators reviewed the scene using burn pattern analysis, interview statements and fire behavior knowledge.
“There was no information gained in this investigation to date to indicate any criminal involvement in this fire,” the statement said.
The Pufahls, meanwhile, are staying at a Kenosha area hotel and might have a found a place to rent in Twin Lakes, according to a Twin Lakes realtor.
Maureen Boyle of Keller-Williams Realty in Twin Lakes stated that a family member contacted her to inquire about any rental properties after the fire
“They have insurance and I believe they are staying at a hotel in Kenosha,” said Boyle, who offered assistance to the couple when she learned of the fire.
Responding agencies in Wisconsin were the towns of Wheatland, Randall, Salem and the Village of Twin Lakes.
Bloomfield/Genoa City also responded.
Agencies from Illinois were the towns of Richmond and Spring Grove along with the Village of Wonder Lake.
Also, the Racine Fire Belles came to offer replenishments to firefighters.