CF fire remains under investigation

Chris Vetter, The Leader-Telegram, Eau Claire, Wis.
·2 min read

Jul. 28—CHIPPEWA FALLS — A deceased person was located in a house that caught fire on Wednesday in Chippewa Falls, and police have now identified a person of interest in the case.

Chippewa Falls Police Chief Matt Kelm said they are looking for Scott M. Vaningan, 58, described as a white male. Vannigan is associated with a white 2001 Harley Davidson Heritage Classic Softail. His last known address is 721 Superior St., which is where the fire occurred.

"If you know his whereabouts, please contact the Chippewa Falls Police Department at 715-723-4424," Kelm wrote in a press release Thursday afternoon. "Do not approach him."

A forensic autopsy has been conducted on the deceased person, Kelm said.

"We have provided a preliminary identification to the family; however, until positive identification can be made and appropriate family notified, we are not releasing the name of the individual at this time," Kelm said.

Investigators are processing the fire scene and are being assisted by agents with the Wisconsin Department of Justice — Division of Criminal Investigation.

"Based on the investigation to this point, we believe the circumstances of the death and the fire are criminal in nature and foul play is suspected in both," Kelm said.

The fire caused about $125,000 worth of damage to the home. John Bowe, Chippewa Falls battalion chief, said the first at 721 Superior St. was reported at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.

"Upon arrival on scene, we found heavy smoke and flames from the rear of the residence," Bowe wrote in a press release. "The main body of the fire was extinguished in 15-minutes. The fire extended into the attic of the residence. Crews attacked the fire from the interior and roof of the building."

The Chippewa Fire District and Anson Fire departments provided mutual aid, and in all, 24 firefighters were on scene.

"This incident remains under active investigation," Kelm said. "Anyone with information about this investigation is urged to call the Chippewa Falls Police Department. More information will be released as appropriate while preserving the integrity of this investigation. Thank you for your patience."

Online court records show Vaningan was recently charged in Chippewa County Court with OWI-4th offense, battery to an officer or judge, operating while revoked and bail jumping, stemming from a March 26 incident. His address at that time was an area hotel. He posted a $1,000 cash bond on May 13.