photo by Bruce Garner
Chattanooga firefighters responded to a house fire at 1103 N. Orchard Knob Avenue around 2 p.m on Monday. The first firefighters on the scene with Engine 4 reported heavy smoke was visible from at least two sides of the house.
As additional fire units arrived on the scene, Captain Wadie Suttles said the firefighters made their way inside to conduct a search for victims. No one was found inside, but they found the fire in the kitchen. Captain Suttles said the fire was beginning to spread to adjacent rooms before they were able to get the fire under control. No injuries were reported.
Captain Suttles said the fire caused extensive damage to the small house and estimated the dollar loss at $17,000. The cause of the fire is being ruled accidental, from food being left unattended on the stove.
Volunteers with the American Red Cross were called in to provide assistance to the couple who lived there, including a temporary stay at a local motel. Chattanooga Police and Hamilton County EMS also provided assistance on the scene.
photo by Bruce Garner