This news release was sent on behalf of the Menomonie Police and Fire Departments and the Dunn County Medical Examiner’s Office:
PRESS RELEASE
On Saturday, April 5, at 3:32 a.m., Menomonie Police and Fire Departments were alerted to smoke in the area of 1415 8th St. in the city of Menomonie. Units from the Menomonie Police Department were first to arrive at the scene, and discovered no visible fire, but heavy smoke at the scene. Menomonie Fire Department arrived and entered the structure and began fire suppression and rescue efforts. During the rescue efforts, the Menomonie Fire Department discovered the bodies of 23-year-old Scott Hams, 21-year-old April Englund and 20-year-old Amanda Rief. They were transported to Red Cedar Medical Center and subsequently pronounced dead after failed resuscitation efforts.
In Saturday, April 5, the Menomonie Police and Fire Departments, with the assistance of the State of Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation Arson Bureau began an investigation into the event. Subsequent investigation revealed that the fire originated in the living room area, primarily related to a love seat that was present. The ignition source for the fire is undetermined. Discovered in the living room area were used cigarettes; however, their role in the ignition of the fire could not be determined. The Menomonie Police Department conducted numerous interviews to re-create the activities prior to the fire.
The Dunn County Medical Examiner’s Office has determined that the three individuals died as a result of smoke inhalation. Preliminary information shows that all three had been consuming alcoholic beverages. Final blood alcohol levels are pending tests from the State Hygiene Lab. It is undetermined what role alcohol had in their decision-making abilities. Based on the information presently available, it is believed that this tragic event was the result of an accident.