South Zanesville Fire Investigated

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The South Zanesville Fire Department says it’s investigating an overnight house fire.

Chief Russell Taylor said it happened just after 12:30 at 110 South Willow Drive. Taylor says when his crews arrived on the scene the back of the house was engulfed in flames. The family escaped unharmed. Taylor said they are investigating but the cause of the fire is likely an electric space heater.

“If you’re going to use an electrical space heater for any reason whatsoever this Winter, always make sure there’s nothing around it,” Taylor said. “Always keep an eye on the cord, make sure the cord’s not getting hot and if it’s acting any way unproper than what it’s manufactured for just unplug it, do away with it. Go buy a new one, don’t take the chance of burning your house down.”

Chief Taylor said around $120,000 in damage was done to the structure, the home is a total loss and a family pet perished in the fire. The Red Cross of Southeastern Ohio was called to the scene to help the family.