Raymond, WI – A deadly house fire in Racine County left a mother dead and a young girl rescued Monday afternoon after a sheriff’s deputy rushed into the burning home through thick smoke. The fire broke out around 2:50 p.m. at a residence on 108th St. in the Village of Raymond.
According to the Racine County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arriving at the scene saw heavy smoke spilling from the residence. A Raymond Fire Department officer and a Town of Norway police officer were already at the front door and reported that at least two people were still inside.
Deputies entered through the attached garage as smoke poured out, filling the home floor to ceiling. While attempting to push deeper inside, a deputy heard a child crying from the direction of the basement stairs. Fighting through the smoke, he re-entered the residence, located the girl, and carried her out to safety. She was turned over to a Norway police officer.
Crews attempted to locate a second female but were forced back by the heavy smoke. Firefighters wearing full protective gear later entered the home, found 38-year-old Jenna R. Zuehlke of Milwaukee, and removed her from the residence. Despite efforts from emergency personnel, she was pronounced dead. The family dog also died in the fire.
Officials say the incident does not appear criminal in nature. The Racine County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Bureau and the county’s fire task force are continuing to review the case.
Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said the responding first responders showed “extraordinary courage” and credited them with saving the young girl’s life.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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