Early morning house fire in Racine claims 1 life, officials investigating

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Racine fire officials tell CBS 58 that a fire broke out at a house Wednesday, Feb. 8 around 12:30 a.m. at 1105 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr.

According to the Racine Fire Department, hoarding-like conditions were found on the first floor of the home. Firefighters searched through both floors of the residence through waist high piles of debris. 

Officials report that an elderly man died in the fire. No other occupants were in the house at the time.

There were no injuries to fire personnel.

The fire was brought under control in about 20 minutes, officials say. In all, 26 firefighters responded to the scene. 

This fire is under investigation by the Racine Fire Department, Racine Police Department and the Racine County Medical Examiner's Office.

No foul play is suspected. 

The fire department is reminding the public of the danger of hoarding large amounts of items inside your home. Hoarding creates a safety hazard due to the increased potential of fire and presents danger to responders attempting to access and search and rescue.