MADRAS, OR -- A Jefferson County man perished in a December 6th house fire that has now been ruled accidental. According to the Sheriff's Office, the blaze was reported on Lower Bridge Road at about 6 a.m. The person who called 911 believed the homeowner, 88-year-old Glenn Cooper may have been inside the home at the time. 

During the initialy investigation, officials confirmed a body was inside. However, because of hot gasses, investigators were not able to process the scene until the following day. 

Based on evidence found later, investigators believe Cooper tried to put the fire out on his own but failed. They also say there were past issues with the wood-burning fireplace that contributed to the cause of the fire.