By Becky Reeves
Coffey County Republican – November 22, 2013
Submitted by Newz Group Clipping Service – November 26, 2013
Jay and Susan Atkin and their daughter, Rachel, are homeless after a fire Tuesday night completely destroyed the family’s house at 425 11th Road, west of Burlington.
The family was not home at the time of the fire, which was discovered by a passerby. The individual called 911 at 6:27 p.m. and reported a house on fire.
“Gridley firefighters, the first on the scene, found the house totally engulfed in flames,” said Fire Chief Randall Brown. “In addition to fighting the house fire, there were several fires outside the structure, such as lumber Jay was going to use to build a deck and garage, brush piles and other items. All we could do was fight it defensively.”
Brown said Burlington and New Strawn firefighters also responded, along with medical units and law enforcement. Equipment brought to the scene included two pumpers, three tankers, a rescue truck and two brush rigs. Twenty-two firefighters battled the blaze. Burlington and New Strawn firefighters left at 8:52 p.m. and Gridley firefighters left at 10:07 p.m. Items were left smoldering in the basement.
The dwelling was a three-story wood frame home on a basement. According to the Coffey County Appraiser’s Office, the original structure was built in 1918. The Atkins have been remodeling the home since 2000. The appraiser’s office valued the home at $27,990 for tax purposes.
“The last person left the home Tuesday at 4 p.m.,” said Chief Brown. “Jay had set off bug bombs and came into town. I cannot say that was the cause of the fire, but it is highly possible.”
The dwelling and contents are insured. The Atkins’ insurance company has provided them with a room at a local motel.
Chief Brown said the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
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