Weaver Avenue Fire Causes $150K in Damage

Newport firefighters responded to a fire at 19 Weaver Ave. around 6:40 a.m. on Saturday morning, according to a report released on Monday night. There were no reported injuries.

Fire and smoke damage was confined to one of the two double garage units at the east end of the building, including on the first floor and a woodshop on the second floor.

The 9,520 square foot complex also contained a vacant apartment and a construction company with associated shop and storage space, which were not damaged.

The fire was reported by a resident living on East Bowery Street who saw smoke and flames coming from the rear of the home.

First responders arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from a hole in the rear first floor exterior wall of the mixed-occupancy building.  Crews had to force entry at the garage door in the front of the building.

According to officials, the fire traveled within the rear wall to the second floor and attic space.

All on duty crews from three stations fought the fire for 50 minutes before it was declared under control.

Fire officials said the fire had originated outside of the building and was caused by smoking materials that were improperly disposed of.

Damage is estimated at approximately $150,000.