Ketchikan, AK (May 17, 2026) – A fire started at a home on Lincoln Street early Saturday, May 17, at 2:28 a.m. after a resident on the first floor noticed smoke and called 911. Two people, Bill Michalsen, 69, and Brenda Michalsen, 65, died on the second floor of the building.
Emergency units arrived after the call and found heavy smoke and fire coming from the upper level. A Ketchikan Police Department officer reached the building about a minute later and reported dense smoke and fire on the second floor.
The two were later found on the second floor and taken to the medical examiner. The fire was brought under control within about an hour, and most emergency units left by 5 a.m. One South Tongass firefighter went to Ketchikan Medical Center with cardiac complaints after leaving the building and has since been released. The investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing, and more details will be provided.
Our condolences go out to the family of the deceased.
What is reviewed after a residential fire with fatalities?
After a residential fire that results in loss of life, investigators usually review how the fire started, how it moved through the home, and how occupants moved within the building. They also examine building materials, electrical systems, and any appliances that may have contributed. Information from neighbors or witnesses can help establish a timeline of what was observed.
Physical evidence, such as burn patterns and smoke movement, is also studied to better understand how the fire formed and progressed. Records from prior inspections and maintenance work may also be checked. Structural layout and ventilation patterns may also be reviewed for context.
