Daughter of CSU associate athletic director killed in house fire

Updated story with new information:  Woman in fire dies of smoke inhalation, thermal injuries

Colorado State University has identified the woman who died in a Sunday Fort Collins house fire.

Rachael Max, 32, died in the blaze at 4512 Idledale Drive, on the southwest outskirts of the city. 

Max is the daughter of Doug Max, former CSU track coach and longtime athletics administrator.

CSU’s athletic department has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Doug Max and his wife, Cindy, as they deal with funeral costs and funding repairs of the home. The Maxes own the home, and it is their residence.

As of Tuesday evening, the effort had raised more than $20,000.

"Anyone who knows Doug knows that he is the epitome of a Stalwart Ram and is always willing to help others," the fundraising page reads in part. "Please help a fellow Ram and his family during their time of need."

CSU football coach Mike Bobo began his weekly news conference Monday by extending sympathies to the family.

"I just wanted to start off by saying that we’re thinking about Doug Max, our senior associate athletic director, that had a tragic loss this past weekend," Bobo said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Doug, and we’re here for you, Coach Max. … It’s just something that you can’t understand."

Poudre Fire Authority firefighters arrived shortly before 5 a.m. Sunday and found the back of the home fully engulfed in fire. Rachael Max had reportedly broken the window in a second-floor bedroom but was unable to escape.

Doug and Cindy Max were out of town, and Rachael Max was the only person in the home at the time of the fire, according to PFA.

The origin and cause of the fire are still under investigation. The fire caused significant damage throughout the home, including to the basement and roof, according to PFA.

Tom Burman, University of Wyoming’s athletic director, joined the call for action Tuesday by tweeting a link to the fundraising page.

"Wyo fans if you can support, please do!" he wrote on Twitter. "This is one of the good guys in our business!"

Funeral arrangements For Rachael Max are still pending, according to CSU.

Coloradoan reporter Kelly Lyell contributed to this report.

Reporter Cassa Niedringhaus covers breaking news for the Coloradoan. Follow her on Twitter: @CassaMN.