81-Year-Old Woman Found Dead After Fond du Lac County House Fire

Authorities investigating cause of blaze that killed elderly resident

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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An 81-year-old woman was found dead inside her home in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin after a fire broke out on Wednesday morning. Emergency responders were called to the scene and discovered smoke coming from the home's attic, but were unable to save the resident, who was located deceased in a bedroom. Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire.

Why it matters

House fires pose a serious risk to elderly and vulnerable residents, who may have difficulty escaping or calling for help. This tragic incident highlights the importance of fire safety and prevention measures, especially in rural areas where emergency response times can be longer.

The details

According to the Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office, the fire was reported around 10:13 a.m. by a nearby resident. When deputies arrived, they observed smoke coming from the attic of the one-story home. Firefighters entered the residence and located the 81-year-old woman deceased inside a bedroom. Investigators say the fire appears to have started in the home's basement, but the exact cause remains under investigation.

  • The fire was reported to authorities around 10:13 a.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency investigating the cause and circumstances of the fatal house fire.

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What’s next

Authorities have not provided a timeline for when the investigation into the cause of the fire will be completed.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially for elderly and vulnerable residents living in rural areas. It underscores the need for robust emergency response systems and preventative measures to protect at-risk community members.