Fire destroys Cocolalla home

COCOLALLA — A fire leveled a two-story home and attached shop on Monday afternoon.

The cause of the fire in the 2300 block of Roop Road remains under investigation, although Sagle Fire District Chief Robert Webber said preliminary findings suggest a wood-burning stove played a role.

There were four teenagers in the home when the fire started and efforts were made to put it out, but they proved unsuccessful.

There were no injuries. The fire was reported shortly before 2:30 p.m.

“When we got there, there was heavy fire rolling out of the eaves on three of the four sides,” said Webber.

Webber said the stove was outside the home and a fan motor forced heat inside the home. A stove pipe had moved out of position and appeared to have ignited cedar siding on the home.

There were no signs of foul play, said Webber.

A father and six teens lived in the home. Webber said they have family close by and have been inundated with offers for help. It was unclear Monday if a bank account had been established to aid them.

Sagle firefighters battled the fire in brutally cold conditions as arctic air system blasted the region. Sagle Conoco and Stacy’s Country Kitchen donated coffee and food.

The two-story home and its one-story shop covered about 3,200 square feet. The homeowner has insurance.