Electrical items suspected in fatal fire
Claussen died from smoke inhalation
SOAP LAKE - The Tuesday house fire claiming the life of a former Grant County PUD commissioner Vera Claussen was possibly caused by the failure of an electrical device and accidental.
A heat lamp, an outdoor pet heat pad and an electrical circuit were found on the back patio where the blaze started, according to investigators.
"The fire is believed to be the result of failure of one of these devices and accidental in nature," Grant County Deputy Jon Melvin stated.
All of the items were found on the covered porch of the home.
Claussen, 78, died early Tuesday morning in her home on Braeburn Drive N.W., near the Lakeview Golf & Country Club in Soap Lake.
Grant County Coroner Jerry Jasman confirmed Thursday she died from smoke inhalation and her identification was confirmed through dental records.
Firefighters weren't able to save her.
The fire was already burning through the roof when they arrived, according to Melvin. Firefighters attempted to rescue Claussen through a back window but had to back off because the fire was advancing too quickly and making the building unstable.
Claussen was found dead in a front bedroom.
The first wave of firefighters didn't hear smoke detectors although bedrooms portions weren't burning, he stated. Investigators didn't find remnants of smoke detectors after the fire was extinguished.
Grant County Fire Districts 7 and 13 and Soap Lake police also responded.
Claussen was known for her 24 years of service as a Grant PUD commissioner and other leadership roles during her 47 years in the power industry.
Legislators mourn Claussen
OLYMPIA - Former Grant County PUD Commissioner Vera Claussen's death in a Tuesday house fire was noticed this week by state legislators from the 13th District.
Claussen was also president of the American Public Power Association during her 47 years of serving and working in the power industry. She served for 24 years as a PUD commissioner.
Sen. Janea Holmquist, R-Moses Lake, Rep. Bill Hinkle, R-Cle Elum, and Rep. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, offered their comments and condolences in the following prepared statement.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to Vera's family and loved ones. Her 47 years of dedicated service to the people of Grant County will serve as an example for all elected officials. Her leadership and spirit of public service will truly be missed." Holmquist stated.
"I am deeply saddened by the recent passing of Commissioner Vera Claussen - she was an inspiration to all elected officials because of her commitment to the people and desire to make a difference. She will be forever missed," Hinkle stated.
"Vera's passing was very untimely and I too am saddened to hear of our loss. She was well-regarded as a longtime woman leader in our county and we won't forget her contributions." Warnick stated.
- Staff report