On November 9, 2021, at approximately 4:37 a.m., our Communications Center received reports of a house fire. Neighbors observed flames exiting a home located in the 6800 block of Howard Street. A neighbor, who is an off-duty firefighter, attempted entry into the house but was forced out due to the heat. Green Mountain Falls Fire Department and the Green Mountain Falls Marshall responded.

Firefighters discovered a deceased body inside the residence. They requested the assistance of the El Paso County Investigations Division. The Pikes Peak Regional Fire Investigations Unit led the investigation to determine the origin and cause of the fire.

After field examination of the fire scene, the Pikes Peak Regional Fire Investigations Unit have found no indication that this fire was intentionally set. The fire is believed to be accidental in nature.

The EL Paso County Coroner's Office has identified the deceased as 77 year-old Kat Bridenbaker. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Kat Bridenbaker.