Authorities Identify Woman Found Dead In Santa Rosa Duplex Fire

SANTA ROSA, CA— A woman was found dead in a duplex fire Tuesday night in southeast Santa Rosa although firefighters were able to save her dog, officials with the Santa Rosa fire and police departments said.

The fire on Knolls Lane — off Bennett Valley Road near Tachevah and Knolls drives— was reported at 7:41 p.m., SRFD Battalion Chief Jason Jenkins said.

Residents directed firefighters to a duplex where smoke was coming from the roof.

"Firefighters forced entry into one of the units and found moderate smoke inside of it," Jenkins said. "Additional firefighters also cut a hole in the roof to ventilate smoke and heat out of the structure. As firefighters began an interior fire attack and search for victims, a deceased occupant was located."

The Sonoma County Sheriff-Coroner's Office identified the woman as Joy Flatebo, 64, of Santa Rosa.

Firefighters in their search also found a large dog that was unconscious.

"The dog was taken outside and was provided oxygen and stimulation," Jenkins said. "After a few minutes, the dog began breathing and responding."

Animal control personnel responded and took the dog to an emergency veterinarian.

Meanwhile, additional crews responded to help attack the fire and stop it from spreading to the adjoining unit.

A total of 20 fire personnel brought the fire under control within about 20 minutes.

The loss from damages was estimated to be around $100,000; Jenkins said there was moderate damage to the unit of origin and minimal damage to the second unit.

The fire did not immediately appear suspicious, Jenkins said.

A Santa Rosa fire investigator and multiple personnel with the Santa Rosa Police Department secured the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire and the woman's death.

"It was discovered that the fire was most likely not set intentionally and started from faulty wiring in the attic space of the home," Santa Rosa police Sgt. Kyle Philp said in a news release Wednesday.

Flatebo's cause of death was not immediately determined but there were no signs of trauma or foul play at the scene, Philp said.

Detectives are seeking anyone who may have information related to this incident; anyone with information is encouraged to call the Santa Rosa Police Violent Crimes Team at 707-543-3590.