Fire That Damaged RivCo Home, Displaced Residents Likely Electrical

RIVERSIDE, CA — A fire that caused major damage to a home just south of the Riverside (91) Freeway, displacing the occupants, was most likely caused by an electrical malfunction, officials said Wednesday.

The blaze was reported just after 3 p.m. Tuesday in the 6600 block of Duke Street, near Maude Street, according to the Riverside Fire Department.

Battalion Chief Brian Davis said three engine crews and a truck company, numbering 17 personnel, were sent to the location and encountered heavy smoke and flames emanating from the rear of the single-story residence.

"Three occupants were home when the fire started, but were able to safely escape," Davis said. "One party suffered a minor injury."

Crews gained the upper hand on the blaze within an hour, but damage to the property was extensive, making the house uninhabitable, according to the fire department spokesman.

He estimated the loss at $300,000.

An investigation revealed "the fire originated from a bathroom" heating unit that was faulty, Davis said.

The injured person did not require hospitalization.

Red Cross volunteers were requested to assist the three occupants, whose identities were not disclosed, with finding temporary alternate lodgings.

—City News Service