Three dead after western Wisconsin house fire

Three people are dead after a house fire in a small western Wisconsin town early Saturday.

The fire on Shogren Road in Anderson Township was reported around 4:48 a.m., according to the Burnett County Sheriff's Office.

When first responders arrived, the home was fully engulfed. The sheriff's office said three people who lived in the home were found dead. They have not been publicly identified.

"It was just devastating," Angel Anderson said. "Why did this all have to happen?" 

Anderson lost her grandparents and uncle, a loss she says is deeply painful. She describes them as loving, funny and always looked out for everyone.

She said she later learned her uncle was the first one out and called 911 before running back inside to save his parents. He didn't make it back out.

"He died a hero trying to get his family out," Anderson said. 

Neighbors and friends echo that sentiment, including Robyn Gorkiewicz. 

"You could probably talk to any of the 1,300 people in the village of Grantsburg and everyone will have a story, a great story of the Shillitos," Gorkiewicz said. 

Now, the community is coming together to organize a fundraiser to help with funeral expenses. There will be one held Saturday at Joker's Bar in downtown Grantsburg, Wisconsin, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

An online donation page has also been set up for the family. 

The fire is under investigation with the help of the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

Anderson Township is located about 20 miles east of Rush City, Minnesota.