Local family displaced after fire destroys home

NASHPORT, Ohio- A Muskingum County family is homeless tonight after a fire ripped through their home.

The Falls Township Fire Department said they received the call shortly after noon when they arrived on scene here on Kenlo Woods Drive they found the garage engulfed in flames.

John and Donna Myers had just gotten home when they smelled something burning.

“When we went by the house there was no smoke. He just smelled like hot something really hot. And then all at once we saw the black smoke. And then it just…,” said Donna Myers.

Homeowner Tina Stanton wasn’t home at the time, but her husband Steven was inside with their dogs.

“He was inside I think watching TV and I yelled for him through the window – he had his windows up – and told him what was going on,” said John Myers.

Steven and the two dogs were able to get out safely. Meanwhile, the Myers called 911 who quickly responded.

“We arrived to find heavy fire in the garage area. Guys made an interior attack and we were able to stop the fire,” said Falls Township Assistant Fire Chief Joseph Hunt.

Hunt says it’s unclear what started the fire.

“The cause remains under investigation. We were able to rescue two dogs and no reported injuries.”

Now the neighborhood is rallying around the family to help them get back on their feet.

“They’re such nice neighbors and I told them they could, you know, come over tonight and spend the night. Bring the dogs and cuz they would do anything for you. They would,” said Mrs. Myers.

Hunt said while they were able to contain that fire to the garage for the most part it did spread a bit into the kitchen. He said though with all of the smoke and water damage it’s possible that the home is a complete loss. He also said the Red Cross of Southeast Ohio will be assisting the family.

The Dresden and Frazeysburgh Fire Departments and Genesis Community Ambulance assisted at the scene.