Firefighters of Center-Jackson Fire Territory responded to a structure fire in Owensburg on Tuesday afternoon, December 24. One person was found deceased. Few details were released initially as an investigation was ongoing.

The deceased has been identified as Jose Munoz, age 49, Owensburg.

Center-Jackson Fire Chief Jeremy Inman said units were dispatched at 1:30 p.m. with the first engine arriving on the scene at 6661 Wine Street in Owensburg at 1:34 p.m.

“The fire was out prior to our arrival,” said Inman.

Inman said the call had been reported by someone doing a wellness check. No smoke was showing when firefighters arrived on the scene.

“After entering the home, it was determined that the couch had been on fire sometime prior to our dispatch. The couch had burned itself out, but the entire home was covered in soot,” said Inman.

Jose Munoz was located in the home, deceased.

The couch was determined to be approximately 70 degrees while fire crews were on the scene and with no smoke in the residence, fire crews were led to believe the fire occurred several hours prior to their notification and arrival.

Today, Thursday, December 26, an autopsy was performed. The cause of death was determined to be smoke inhalation.

Inman said, “At this time, there is no suspicion of foul play.”

Inman reported the fire continues to be investigated by personnel from the Center-Jackson Fire Territory, the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, the Greene County Coroner’s Office and the State of Indiana Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Greene County Ambulance Service provided assistance on the scene.