Grill Mishap Leads To Raging House Fire In Vernon

VERNON, CT — A two-family home in the Rockville section of Vernon was in ruins Friday after a raging fire the previous evening.

The cause was an "unattended grill," Vernon Fire Marshal Daniel Wasilewski said.

When firefighters arrived at 97 Prospect St. just before dusk Thursday, they encountered a fully involved fire that engulfed the rear portion of the circa 1900 home and spread to all points.

All residents were accounted for, but firefighters had to evacuate the home because of heavy flames and "active gas leaks," officials said.

All Vernon companies responded to the scene.

The extensive damage was visible Friday morning. The inside of the home was completely charred and the rear of the home was demolished by the flames. Two partially melted vehicles sat on one side of the home. About the only thing left undamaged was a lone lawn chair on the front lawn.

Shingles at a home next door appeared to be damaged.

In all, three people were displaced from the 904-square-foot house, Wasilewski said.

The American Red Cross was assisting the residents with shelter and supplies.