Autopsy Confirms Man Died in Central Point Fire (Photo)

CENTRAL POINT, Ore. - The Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office has identified the man whose body was found near the Bear Creek Greenway following the Peninger Fire.  An autopsy Friday confirmed he died as a result of Tuesday's fire. 

Investigators identified the decedent as Robert Lee Walker, 60, through a fingerprint comparison.  Following autopsy, Deputy State Medical Examiner Dr. James Olson, MD, concluded that Walker died as a result of thermal injuries sustained during the fire on July 17, 2018. 

Detectives say Walker was homeless and living along the Bear Creek Greenway.  His family has been notified of his death. 

On the morning of Thursday, July 19, Walker's body was spotted by Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) and Fire District 3 officials who were surveying the burned area by helicopter.  JCSO detectives, Fire District 3 personnel, and a medical examiner investigator responded to the scene.  

Detectives continue their investigation into the fire, which was determined to be human caused.  Anyone with information about the fire is asked to call the JCSO tip line at (541) 774-8333.  Refer to case #18-14794.

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