Fire razes abandoned home

Flathead County Crimestoppers is asking the public for help after a historic abandoned home on West Springcreek Road was destroyed in a suspicious fire late Thursday night.

Witnesses saw a small gray or silver sport utility vehicle at the property immediately before the fire.

The building was the third historic structure in the area to burn down in the past year.

West Valley Fire Chief Russ Sappington said the building was fully engulfed in flames when his department arrived after being called out at roughly 11 p.m.

“We got it surrounded and got it knocked down, but it’s pretty much gone,” Sappington said.

Fire investigators returned to the scene Friday morning.

The Smith Valley Fire Department and South Kalispell Fire Department provided mutual aid at the fire.

Anyone with information on the possible identities of those involved is asked to contact Crimestoppers at 752-8477 or the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office at 758-5585.

Tipsters may remain anonymous and could qualify for a reward.