LIMA — The Lima Fire Department responded to a fire at around 8:07 p.m. Monday, classifying it as a two-alarm fire requiring mutual aid from the American Township Fire Department.
According to Lima Fire Investigator Joe Lombardo, the fire at 1143 Richie Ave. began in the upstairs closet. The fire was contained to the closet but the house did sustain smoke and water damage.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined conclusively by investigators, but firefighters believe the fire may have started by someone entering the home who did not live there for warmth. The house had no electricity or appliances. The residence currently has no occupants and the homeowners were not present.
The home is owned by Harris Rickie and is valued at an estimated $50,000, according to the Allen County Auditor’s Office website. The Lima Fire Department reported damages of around $25,000 to the property.
