COLUMBUS, Ind. – Columbus Fire Department (CFD) investigators have determined that a lightning strike was the cause of a Tuesday evening house fire in the Breakaway Trails neighborhood.
Firefighters responded to 3757 Pawnee Trail on Tuesday at around 8:15 p.m. after the homeowner discovered smoke in the home and called 9-1-1, according to CFD’s Capt. Mike Wilson.
Crews witnessed smoke coming from the roof eaves upon arrival. The owner told firefighters that he believed that the fire was on the second floor and that no one else was inside the two-story single-family residence.
Although the ground level of the home was clear of smoke, first responders were met with extreme heat and lots of smoke on the second floor. There were heavy flames in the home’s laundry room, which were quickly extinguished. Capt. Wilson said the fire was under control within 10 minutes.
Neighbors said they heard a loud clap of lightning shortly before the blaze. Evidence indicated that the lighting strike damaged a gas supply line to the clothes dryer. It is believed the natural gas-fed fire occurred after a portion of the gas supply line sustained electrical arcing damage, according to CFD.
Damages are estimated at about $100,000. The owners said they will be staying with family members.
Courtesy – CFD
Courtesy – CFD
