The duplex fire at 527 Sequoia Dr. was reportedly started by two teenagers cooking.
photo by American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee
Chattanooga firefighters responded to two kitchen fires within the past 24 hours. The first one occurred Saturday morning at 3116 15th Ave. Captain Joey Smith with Engine 5 said the firefighters were able to contain the fire to the kitchen area. The lone occupant got out of the house safely. The dollar loss was estimated at $15,000. The cause of the fire was ruled accidental, from food being left unattended on the stove.
The other fire occurred in a duplex shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday at 527 Sequoia Dr. Captain Emily Smith said the fire was caused by two boys – ages 13 and 14 – who were home alone and cooking. The fire started in the kitchen and spread to other rooms. Captain Smith said the boys got out of the apartment and also alerted the family living on the other side to get out as well. Chattanooga firefighters arrived a short time later and extinguished the fire.
One side of the duplex had substantial fire damage; the other side had smoke damage. The loss was estimated at $50,000. Volunteers with the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee were requested to respond to the scene to provide assistance to the two families.