Published: January 13, 2009 10:24 am      

Fireplace blamed for Logansport house fire

Firefighters spent much of morning battling blaze

Firefighters were out before sunrise battling a blaze that severely damaged a Logansport home.

Logansport firefighters responded about 4 a.m. to the Terry Dearinger residence at 1920 Chieftain Row. All occupants were out of the two-story structure, which is in an upscale neighborhood off Davis Road north of the city.

“It appears to be caused by a wood burning fireplace,” Assistant Fire Chief Kim Costello said.

The fire climbed inside the wall up into the attic and spread throughout the house, causing extensive damage. The fire proved difficult to track down because of the way it traveled through the walls and ceilings.

Costello noted the threat of the fire rekindling with the forecast calling for temperatures to plummet and wind to pick up.

The assistant chief reported no injuries to firefighters or occupants. EMS was on scene in case something did happen.

Logansport Fire Department received manpower and tanker assistance from New Waverly and Twelve Mile fire departments.

Firefighters said the investigation into the cause of the fire would continue throughout the day.

Kevin Lilly can be reached at (574) 732-5117, or via e-mail at kevin.lilly@pharostribune.com