A smoldering fire pit led to a fire that spread to multiple homes and outbuildings in an Owensboro neighborhood Thursday afternoon, authorities say.
According to the Owensboro Fire Department, crews were dispatched at approximately 2:30 p.m. Thursday to the 2500 block of Lake Pointe after reports of a large backyard fire. While crews were en route, additional 911 calls reported the fire was rapidly expanding and, fueled by wind, had spread to multiple homes and storage buildings.
Engine 5 arrived to find heavy black smoke behind the reported address and assumed command of the scene, authorities said. After firefighters assessed the situation, additional units were requested to help contain the blaze.
According to OFD, the fire originated from a smoldering fire pit located next to combustible materials. The flames quickly spread to nearby storage buildings before reaching neighboring homes.
Two homes on Elder Drive sustained heavy fire damage, while another home on Elder Drive suffered minor heat damage. Two homes on Lake Pointe received moderate fire damage. Several storage buildings and fencing behind the homes were also damaged.
No injuries were reported.
The response included Engine 1, Engine 3, Engine 4, Engine 5, Rescue 1, Ladder 1, Ladder 5, Fire 95, Fire 94, Fire 84, Fire 97, Fire 77, and Fire 99. Daviess County Fire Department also responded to provide additional manpower.
The Owensboro Police Department, Kenergy, Atmos Energy, and AMR also responded to the scene.
