Victim in fatal Chapman Lake fire identified

KOSCUISKO COUNTY, Ind. (WANE) The victim of a fatal fire on Chapman Lake on Wednesday Jan. 23 has been identified as 65-year-old Stephen T. Hall of Warsaw.

Officials used various X-ray and dental comparisons to identify Hall, who died from smoke inhalation and thermal burns.

Kosciusko County Sheriff’s deputies and five fire departments were called to the home at 2147 Chapman Lake Drive just before 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. The house was fully engulfed and flames were spreading to a home nearby.

According to officials, the fire started in the basement of the home. On Tuesday night, the water lines froze and a portable heater was used in an attempt to thaw the pipes. Evidence found at the scene indicates the fire started near the portable heater.

The Kosciusko County Coroner’s office located the remains of a body in the rubble Wednesday afternoon. The name of the person who died hasn't been released.

Firefighters said efforts to fight the flames were slightly hampered by the cold and a slight wind that was blowing across Chapman Lake.