LA PORTE COUNTY, Ind. -- One person was killed in a house fire in the 5600 block of W CR 300 North Tuesday morning.

The La Porte County Sheriff's Office and firefighters were dispatched to the home at approximately 10:30 a.m. CST.

When deputies arrived on scene, they attempted to enter the home, but were unable to gain entry because of the flames.

When firefighters made entry, they discovered 81-year-old Charles Putchaven deceased.

The La Porte County Coroner's Office has ruled his death as a result of smoke inhalation and severe thermal burns.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Coolspring, Center, Springfield, and Michigan Shores Volunteer Fire Departments, La Porte County EMS, La Porte County Coroner’s Office and the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.