MANITOWOC, WI (WHBL) -
The Manitowoc County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of the person killed in a southside Manitowoc house fire last night. Coroner Curtis Green said an autopsy performed this morning confirmed the victim as 90 year old Arnold Goeke of 1711 Phillipen Street. Goeke died from carbon monoxide and smoke inhalation after his house caught fire last night.
He was the only person in the home when firefighters responded around 8 o'clock Tuesday night. They were told there was heavy smoke, visible flames, and a possible victim inside. Officials said Goeke was removed and taken to a hospital, where resuscitation efforts failed.
Fire Battalion Chief Tim Herzog said the blaze was brought under control about an hour after units were called, and one crew stayed overnight. Five other fire and rescue departments responded. The Salvation Army provided hot beverages for firefighters working in sub-zero temperatures. A city bus was used as a warming shelter. The state Fire Marshal is helping Manitowoc authorities investigate the cause of the blaze.