Sicklerville House Fire Blamed on Lightning

Investigators believe lightning is to blame for a fire inside a vacant home on Flagstone Drive, in the township's Sicklerville section, Thursday afternoon.

Ptl. Tim Kohlmyer discovered the fire at about 4:40 p.m., according to Lt. Mike Harkins.

Kohlmyer was on patrol in Cobblestone Farms after a severe thunderstorm rolled through when he heard the faint sound of what he believed was a smoke detector. He saw smoke coming from 1 Flagstone Dr., which is for sale, then found an active fire inside the home.

The fire reportedly was contained to the home's basement and first floor.

While the cause of the blaze remains under investigation, it is believed lightning struck the home, sparking the fire.

Firefighters from Gloucester Township, Winslow and Pine Hill responded to the fire scene.

An unidentified firefighter sustained minor injuries fighting the blaze, according to police, and was treated at an area hospital. Emergency communications indicated the firefighter was suffering from smoke inhalation.

The Camden County Fire Marshal is conducting the follow-up investigation.