2/7/2008

A Chattanooga family lost many of their personal belongings following a house fire last night.  Sonya Lykes told firefighters that she and her two daughters had moved out of the house about a week ago, and had returned to get some clothes.  There was no power to the house and they were using candles for light.  While they were loading the car, Ms. Lykes said she saw smoke and flames in a bedroom.  She then ran to a neighbor's house and called 911.

Chattanooga firefighters responded to the fire at 3802 10th Avenue shortly after 10:00 Wednesday night.  Battalion Chief Mike Knox said the fire was located in a front bedroom and was getting into the attic before the firefighters could get the blaze under control.  No injuries were reported.  The dollar loss was estimated at $40,000. 

Lieutenant Henry McElvain with the Fire Investigation Division said the cause of the fire will be listed as accidental, most likely from an improperly used candle.  Ms. Lykes and her two daughters will be staying at a relative's house until more permanent accommodations can be arranged.

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