In response to a report about a house fire at 1610 Cedar St. on Feb. 2, one of the three occupants of the residence, Janelle McClintic, offered more information about the incident.
A photo and information covering the fire appeared in the Feb. 7 edition of The New Era.
Fire investigators with Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District had determined that the fire originated at a trash can that had ashes in it, noting no other ignition source in the area.
The fire report said that ashes had been placed in the can the night before the fire after residents had checked them to ensure they were cool.
McClintic told The New Era that information was incorrect and had apparently became confused when residents discussed it with fire officials.
Actually, she said, the ashes that were in the can had been placed in the can nearly a week earlier, on Jan. 27. Those ashes had sat overnight for 24 hours prior to being put in the can.
What apparently caused confusion were more ashes that another resident had spread out on the ground the day before the fire, she said.
McClintic said the fire destroyed a garage that had been converted into a video room. The fire reached the kitchen and had started down a hallway.
The SHFAD fire report indicated the fire had entered the attic, with heavy smoke damage throughout the house.
McClintic said the loss is around 90 percent, and the insurance company is calling it a total loss.
The fire has been devastating for the residents, she said, and they could still use assistance to help recover from the fire. Anyone who wishes to help, may contact McClintic by email at [email protected].