Point Lena house fire ignition source under investigation

A hard-fought house fire near Point Lena that began in or around a wood storage shed is under investigation, as the fire marshal seeks the source of the blaze.

The fire spread to the roof, igniting the internal insulation, which fed on itself until it was extinguished, said Capital City Fire/Rescue fire marshal Dan Jager in an email.

“Once in the roof space, the foam insulation and tar paper began to melt and ignite, which turned into a liquid petroleum fire and extended to several confined spaces that were not easily accessible to apply water,” Jager said. “It is the way the home was constructed that just made it difficult for us. We always encourage residential sprinkler systems, but I don’t think this would have made a difference given the location of the flames started outside rather than inside like typical.”

CCFR was on-scene dealing with the fire from 12 minutes after receiving the call just after noon to 6:45 p.m., Jager said. Now, with the fire out, the aftermath begins, including discerning the cause of the fire, which is undetermined at this time.

“There were no occupants at home at the time of the fire. The home was insured and no injuries to firefighters were reported,” Jager said. “The cause of this fire is under investigation. The dollar loss is being calculated and will be several thousands of dollars.”

About 25 firefighters responded to the call, Assistant Chief Ed Quinto said in a phone interview.

The house was insured, Jager said. Neighbors and the Red Cross were able to assist the resident. CCFR also thanked the community in a social media post.

“A huge thanks to the neighbors in this area who were extremely helpful with providing interviews and video and photographs from cellphones to assist with the investigation,” read a CCFR social media post. “Fire investigations are a team effort and the team consists of members of the community as well.”

• Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at (757) 621-1197 or mlockett@juneauempire.com.