Kalispell home a total loss after early morning fire
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">A house on Sixth Avenue East in Kalispell was a total loss after an early Sunday morning fire.</span></p>
An eastside Kalispell home was considered a total loss after an early Sunday morning spark started the blaze.
A report about a fire at on Sixth Avenue East came in at 3:35 a.m., Kalispell Fire Chief Dave Dedman said. When crews arrived, the fire was fully involved, with fire and smoke showing from three sides of the building.
All residents of the house escaped without injury, but the residence and all its contents are a total loss, estimated at more than $200,000.
Kalispell, Smith Valley, Evergreen and South Kalispell fire departments mounted a defensive strategy to keep the flames from leaping to nearby houses. Extensive efforts were needed because of certain construction features and the fact that the structure was fully engulfed.
A preliminary fire investigation concluded that the fire was accidental. Improper use and disposal of smoking materials was the most likely cause, the investigation found.
The American Red Cross, Flathead Electric Cooperative and Northwestern Energy also responded to the scene.
Reporter Ryan Murray can be reached at 758-4436 or rmurray@dailyinterlake.com.