UPDATED Friday, March 6, 2009 --- 3:10 p.m.

From the Rock County Sheriff's Department:

The Sheriff’s Office investigation of the fatal residential fire at 8441 N USH 14 Lot 15, is complete. The fire’s origin was in a porch attached to the residence, which housed a wood- burning stove; functioning as the home’s heating source. Officially, the cause of the fire is undetermined, however, it is most likely the operation of the wood-burning stove caused the fire.

Moreover, dental records definitively identified the victim as 34-year-old Duane Pernot. Mr. Pernot was the homeowner, and sole occupant of the residence at the time of the fire.

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UPDATED Friday, March 6, 2009 --- 3:00 p.m.

From the Rock County Coroner:

The victim of the fatal residential fire in the Town of Union on 03/05/09 has been positively identified as Duane S. Pernot, age 34. Dr. Don Simley, Forensic Odontologist, performed the dental records comparison in Madison at 1245 on 03/06/09.

The final cause of death is under investigation. Toxicology results are pending.

Jenifer Keach
Rock County Coroner

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UPDATED Thursday, March 5, 2009 --- 8:00 a.m.

Press Release from Rock County Sheriff's Department:

On 03/05/09, at approximately 2:41 a.m. Deputies from the Rock County Sheriff’s Office along with Fire and EMS personnel from Evansville, Brooklyn, and Stoughton were dispatched to 8441 N. HWY 14, Lot 15, for a residential fire. While en-route, responding units were advised that a person might still be in the residence.

Evansville Police were first on scene and advised that the structure was fully engulfed, making entry impossible. Nearby residents were evacuated due to intense heat and large flames. Fire personnel were able to extinguish the fire and in the process located a deceased individual. Full determination as to gender and identity has yet to be discovered.

Rock County Sheriff’s personnel remain on scene until the investigation is complete. Further reports and updates will be released pending the outcome of the investigation