2/20/2008

No one was home and no injuries were reported in connection with a house fire at 6403 Valley Crest Lane.  The Chattanooga Fire Department received the alarm at 11:24 a.m. and responded with four fire companies.  Captain Vance Woodward with Engine 22 said the back side of the house was engulfed in flames when the first firefighters arrived on the scene.  The fire destroyed the back deck, then penetrated into the kitchen and living room area, and was getting into the attic before firefighters could get the blaze under control.

Jeffery James, his wife and three children were all reportedly away at the time of the fire.  Volunteers with the American Red Cross were called in to provide assistance to the victims.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.  Chattanooga police provided assistance on the scene.

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