Chattanooga firefighters responded to a residential structure fire at 1102 Crutchfield Street around 8 p.m. on Saturday.
Captain Chip Kincer said there was heavy fire in the front and side of the structure, aided considerably by the high winds. The firefighters were able to get the fire under control fairly quickly, with minimal damage to the residence next door. No injuries were reported.
The occupant stated he had a space heater in his bedroom that had been operating for several days. He advised that he had been on his porch and returned to the house to find his bedroom on fire. Captain Kincer said the man initially tried to extinguish the fire, causing minor burns to his hand. He refused transport to the hospital by EMS.
The American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee is assisting the three occupants of the residence. Captain Kincer estimated the loss at $30,000.