Dec 09, 2019

Authorities investigate cause of 2 Kansas house fires

Posted Dec 09, 2019 11:30 AM

Crews on the scene of Sunday's house fire on SE Republican Avenue in Topeka -photo courtesy WIBW TV


SHAWNEE COUNTY — Authorities are investigating the cause of two house fires on Sunday in Topeka.


Just after 1a.m. Sunday, fire crews responded to the report of a structure fire at 1240 SE Republican Ave. in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Michael Martin.


Upon arrival, fire crews found the rear of the structure fully involved. No one was reportedly at home at the time of the fire. The preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as Undetermined; pending further investigation, according to Martin. The structure sustained $5,000 in damage; contents loss is being estimated at $2,000.00. Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure


Just after 4a.m. Sunday, fire crews responded to a fire at a home at 1140 SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to Martin. Upon arrival, fire suppression crews reported heavy fire involvement of the first and second stories of the dwelling.


Due to the heavy volume of fire within the structure of fire origin, damage was sustained by the home to the south; 1108 SW Western Avenue.


The fire was contained and extinguished, but not before both structures sustained significant water and fire damage.


The dwelling was not occupied at the time of the fire. Preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as Undetermined; pending further investigation. Estimated structural damage is listed at $62,000; contents loss is being estimated at $15,000.00. Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure of fire origin