DOWAGIAC, Mich. — A fire caused heavy damage to a home Tuesday afternoon in Dowagiac.
It happened about 2:45 p.m. at 403 W. Telegraph, according to a news release Wednesday.
The deputy fire chief reported heavy fire conditions on the first floor of the home after arriving on scene.
Flames had just purged out two windows on the right side – as viewed from the street – of the residence.
Fire crews encountered and reported severe fire and smoke conditions on the first floor and fire was advancing to the second floor of the “balloon” construction home.
Balloon construction is a term for a common, older style with no fire stops in the structure walls between floors.
The fire was declared under control in about 45 minutes.
The fire had been discovered when a teenager living at the house returned home from school and called 9-1-1.
The last time a family member had been at the house was around noon.
Heavy damage occurred on both floors.
Crews believe the fire originated in a downstairs bedroom, based on fire involvement upon arrival.
However, the cause the fire hasn’t yet been determined and the Dowagiac Fire Department is coordinating efforts with insurance company investigators to determine the case.
The family had been having electrical issues in the past, but this isn’t yet conclusive.
Two adults and four children are currently living with other family members pending coordination with the insurance company.
Most of their clothing and possessions were damaged by the fire conditions.
No injuries were reported.
