Published: October 27, 2009 09:21 am      

WO house receives heavy smoke, water damage during fire

The owners of a house which was heavily damaged during a fire were out of town Monday when it occurred.

Firefighters responded to the fire about 12:15 p.m. at 2314 Bonham in West Orange. When firefighters arrived they saw heavy smoke around the middle section of the house. The blaze had not broken through the roof at that point. However, before firefighters could extinguish the flames, the roof has collapsed.

Within about an hour, firefighters were able to control the fire. However, they stayed at the scene three more hours conducting salvage and overhaul.

The fire is believed to have started around the hot water heater in the garage. However, it is still under investigation.

Eventually firefighters cleared the scene and were able to leave around 4 p.m.

The house received heavy smoke and water damage, according to West Orange Fire Chief Randy Vietch.

Assisting at the scene were firefighters from Pinehurst, McLewis and Little Cypress.



Debby Schamber is a reporter for the Orange Leader. She can be reached at 409-883-3571 ext. 2609 or at dschamber@orangeleader.com.