MAPLE FALLS, Wash. -- Authorities now saying the woman who died in a Maple Falls fire yesterday was under investigation for stealing around 100-thousand-dollars from the business where she previously worked.

Whatcom County Undersheriff Jeff Parks says officers were going to arrest 45-year-old Belinda Barnett for three counts of first degree theft.

Parks says Barnett worked at the business as an accountant.

He says authorities had tried and were not able to question or arrest Barnett prior to the fire yesterday morning.

Parks says the fire started inside the house.

Whatcom County Medical Examiner Doctor Gary Goldfogel says Barnett died from smoke inhalation.

Authorities say Barnett was found near the door after crews knocked the blaze down.