Early Morning House Fire Likely Caused By Electrical Malfunction

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

No injuries were reported in connection with a duplex fire early Tuesday morning. The Chattanooga Fire Department received the alarm at 1:50 a.m. and responded to 1209 S. Lyerly St. with four fire companies.

Captain Tony Manis with Engine 5 said heavy smoke was showing from the eaves of the roof line when the first firefighters arrived on the scene.

Captain Manis said the firefighters made a quick interior attack and got the blaze under control in about 30 minutes. Most of the fire damage was contained to one side of the duplex.

Lt. Anthony Moore with the fire investigation division said the cause of the fire appears to be accidental, most likely from an electrical malfunction in the kitchen. The dollar loss was estimated at around $30,000.

Volunteers with the American Red Cross were called in to provide assistance to the residents of both apartments. Chattanooga police, Hamilton County EMS and EPB also provided assistance on the scene.


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