As smoke billowed into the sky and could be seen for miles around, firefighters from half a dozen different departments raced to the home on Coit Road Friday morning.
Neighbors say the scene was chaotic. Randy Lattimer, who's home was just north of the fire says, "There were a lot of explosions going on. I believe I heard the propane tank explode."
That wasn't all. Firefighters say one of the residents made his own ammunition and had gunpowder and other materials stored in the house.
Firefighters believe the blaze started in or near a garage, but quickly spread and soon engulfed the entire structure. Family members, who weren't home at the time, rushed back only to find their possessions were a total loss. Resident Lauren Susany, who lives at the home with her mom, step-father and two siblings, tells us, "Everything's in there, from sentimental things to text books that I have to use a few weeks from now."
Lauren tells us her younger sister was home asleep when the flames broke out, but got out safely after smelling smoke and hearing smoke alarms ringing. In the end, no one was hurt, although paramedics were on hand just in case.
Lauren tells us friends and family will now be helping the victims pick up the pieces.
Meanwhile, it could be another few days, at least, before we have an idea about a cause or a damage estimate.
Go to "video on demand" on our home page and click on EXTRA to see the amazing video we captured of the blaze.
