Updated: One person dead after Central Kentucky house fire

One person was killed in a house fire in Berea Monday morning, according to the Berea Fire Department.

The fire happened around 12:30 a.m. on the 100 block of Barrett Lane in Madison County. Berea fire Lt. Brent Billings said firefighters found the house fully involved with flames when they first arrived on the scene.

While crews were extinguishing the fire, a search found a person dead inside the home, according to Billings. Madison County coroner Jimmy Cornelison identified the victim as Matthew Dallam, 59.

Dallam will have an autopsy, according to Billings. Cornelison said it’s believed his death is due to the fire but official tests are still pending.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

“Berea Fire Department’s deepest condolences go out to the family and friends who have lost a home and a loved one in tonight’s fire,” Billings wrote in a press release. “We would also like to say thank you to Madison County Sherriff’s office, Berea Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Madison County EMS, and the Madison County Coroner’s office for all of the assistance in this matter.”