WINNEBAGO CO, WI (WTAQ) -A suspicious fire remains under investigation after the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department located the remains of two people in a house fire in the Town of Clayton.
Authorities say one man who lived at the residence reported gunshots being fired.
“One male ran from the residence and said someone was firing a weapon in the home,” said Sheriff John Matz.
Darin Eschenbauch who is familiar with the neighboorhood and works nearby says he noticed the fire.
“So, we came around the corner to old George’s or the neighbor’s house. We ran up there, to see if he was alright. He started shouting they’re shooting, take cover.”
Deputies attempted to enter the house, believing two victims might inside. The smoke and flames pushed them back.
Earlier in the day, one set of remains were found and Sheriff Officials thought one of the residents, 35-year-old Jeremy Wallenfang may have escaped. They were concerned that he was possibly armed and dangerous, and ordered a lockdown of nearby schools.
Later in the afternoon, the remains of a second person were found.
Sheriff John Matz says they are possibly that of the man they were looking for.
“Until identification is made, we have good reason to believe that he would be one of the victims.”
He say it may take some times for the remains to be identified.
“We are still putting together the entire events of the evening, but we believe we have a good understanding of who was involved,” said Sheriff Matz.
A SWAT team was called to the scene early in the morning.
