Victim in fatal fire identified

SANDPOINT — Bonner County sheriff’s officials have identified the woman who was killed in a structure fire at Priest Lake as Shirley McDonald, 73.

The cause of the fire at McDonald’s residence along Highway 57 remains under investigation, although it appears at this time that it was not intentional or the result of foul play, sheriff’s officials said on Monday.

The fire occurred at about 6 p.m. on Dec. 30, approximately 27 miles north of Priest River.

Sheriff’s Det. Sgt. Gary Johnston said the victim’s husband was working in a detached heavy equipment garage and Shirley McDonald was preparing their dinner inside the home when the fire broke out.

Johnston said McDonald’s husband made several attempts to gain entry into the burning home, but was turned back by heavy smoke and heat.

“He was pushed back and basically couldn’t get in,” said Johnston.

The couple are longtime Priest Lake residents and well-known in the community.

Johnston said the home, which had been modified throughout the years, was heated by a wood stove and various home appliances were running when the fire took hold.

“A portion of the structure remained intact, but the living quarters fell in on itself and landed in the basement,” Johnston added.