SANDPOINT — A wood stove in a home’s living room was found to have caused a fatal Sunday structure fire, according to an investigation by the Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office.  

Officials confirmed the origin of the fire Tuesday, Feb. 17. 

According to a press release, Selkirk Fire was dispatched to a structure fire at 10:29 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, after smoke and flames were seen coming from a structure on Gold Mountain Drive in Sagle.  

Fire departments from Northside and Sandpoint were dispatched for automatic aid, and Timberlake Fire for mutual aid. Under standard protocol for structure fires, Bonner County EMS was also dispatched. While en route, first responders were advised that someone may be inside the residence.  

Upon arrival at the single-family residence, officials reported heavy fire coming from the front of the structure. Offensive actions were used to attack the fire, and firefighters began a search for the victim. The victim was located inside a bedroom and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  

Officials said a second victim, a neighbor who attempted to rescue the original victim, was also found on the scene. The woman suffered critical injuries from the fire and was transported from the scene by a LifeFlight helicopter after receiving treatment from BCEMS. 

“Today’s fire reflects a worst-case scenario for our community. We grieve with the friends and family of the victim,” Northside Fire Chief Jeff Armstrong said.  

Officials remind homeowners to have their wood stoves serviced and inspected annually, and to have the inspections done by a reputable and licensed contractor. Clearance around the woodstove should be maintained, keeping flammable materials away from the stove when in use.