A cat was found dead and a second cat is unaccounted for after a fire broke out and caused heavy damage throughout a home near Crystal Lake Friday afternoon.
Theย Nunda Rural Fire Protection District responded around 3:20 p.m. Friday to the 3700 block of Riverside Drive in unincorporated Crystal Lake for a report of a residential structure fire.
Firefighters arrived on the scene within minutes and observed heavy smoke showing from the rear of a two-story residence, according to Nunda Rural Fire Protection District Communication Specialist Alex Vucha.
A defensive attack from the exterior was established using several hose lines and truck operations, Vucha said.
A request for additional resources was made through the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS).
17 neighboring agencies responded to the scene or covered Nundaโs fire station during the incident.
Vucha said firefighters worked aggressively and brought the fire under control nearly an hour later at 4:14 p.m.
Firefighters remained on the scene for an additional two hours to monitor and overhaul extensive smoldering content inside the home.
A preliminary investigation indicates the fire started on the second floor but the exact cause remains under investigation.
One occupant was home when the fire occurred and safely evacuated, Vucha said.
A cat was located deceased and a second cat remains unaccounted for.
The two-story home sustained heavy damage throughout and was deemed uninhabitable.
The two residents of the home are receiving housing and various aid assistance from the American Red Cross.