Cold case investigation of fatal fire heats up.

NEWAYGO COUNTY — Investigators from the Hart Post of the Michigan State Police, the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Newaygo County Prosecutor Robert Springstead, are focusing on the fatal fire that caused the death of Newaygo resident Geraldine Rauch 15 years ago, according to an MSP press release issued Wednesday, Jan. 6.

“Detectives are re-opening the investigation into the suspicious fire that caused the death of Geraldine Rauch on Feb. 2, 2001,” the press release states.

The fire occurred at 2975 N. Baldwin Rd. in White Cloud, at the home she shared with her husband Kenneth Rauch, 56. Geraldine and her two dogs were found dead in the home that was destroyed by fire.

“Cold cases are often solved because the passage of time allows witnesses and persons with information the courage to come forward,” the press release states.

“Investigators feel that there are persons with information that will be pertinent to the 2001 fire and death of Geraldine Rauch. Anyone with information is urged to contact D/Sgt. Scott Rios at rioss@michigan.gov; MSP at 231.873.2171; voicemail at 231-873-3584 ext. 222, or Silent Observer at 231.652.1121. The Silent Observer program allows information to be shared anonymously.