Trish Bennett, Editor
CIRCLEVILLE – The Circleville Fire Department is investigating a suspicious fire that broke out overnight at a vacant property on East Union Street.
The blaze totaled a detached garage in the alley behind 343 E. Union St., according to Lt. Dave Robertson, and melted vinyl siding and fencing at neighboring properties.
Robertson said a neighbor reported the fire about 12:30 a.m. Thursday, and crews worked until after 2 a.m. to bring the scene under control.
“Upon our arrival, flames were about six to eight feet above the structure,” Robertson said. “It appeared to have a lot of trash and tires in it, which was contributing to the heat and the length of time it took us to put it out.”
Robertson said the flames also burned through power and utility lines in the area. AEP workers were on the scene as late as 4:30 a.m. repairing damage and restoring power to the area, and phone and cable crews were expected to complete their repairs sometime Thursday.
Robertson said the incident is currently being investigated as suspicious with an undetermined origin due to reports of teenagers coming in and out of the residence since it has been unoccupied. He said the investigation is being handled locally by the Circleville Fire Department.
This article originally appeared on The Pickaway News Journal
