Posted Friday, January 20, 2012 --- 3:10 p.m.

Press Release from the Baraboo Fire Department & Sauk County Sheriff's Department:

On January 20, 2012 at approximately 11:00 a.m. Baraboo Fire, Baraboo Ambulance and the Sauk County Sheriff’s Department were dispatch to 511 Locust Street for a reported structure fire with an occupant inside.

Upon arrival of the first fire department unit, there was no smoke showing, but the windows were black from smoke stain.

Additional fire personnel arrived and entered the home to find a deceased female and a smoldering fire.

The fire was extinguished without further incident. No additional injuries to civilians or fire personnel were reported.

The home is owned by Ronald and Ellen Jerdee. Ellen Jerdee, age 66 perished in the fire. The family dog also perished in the fire.

Baraboo Fire Department responded with one Engine, a Squad and two Command Cars.

The home sustained moderate fire and heat damage. There is no estimate on the amount of damage.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation and is ongoing, jointly between the Baraboo Fire Department, Sauk County Sheriff’s Department and the Sauk County Coroner’s Office.

The family was further assisted at the scene by the Salvation Army.