Investigators say south Hall house fire was accidental

GAINESVILLE - Everyone escaped injury when fire essentially destroyed a house in the 4500 block of Cash Drive Tuesday morning.

Hall County Fire Chief David Kimbrell said while they're not sure of the cause, investigators believe it's accidental.

"The owner stated that he believed the fire started in the basement around a boat that was inside in the basement," Kimbrell said.

Kimbrell said the 2000 square foot house was worth an estimated $180,000. The house is off of Strickland Road in the Flowery Branch area.

Kimbrell said the call came around 6:30 a.m. from the homeowner.

"We have offered Red Cross. They're going to contact them. We believe that they'll be able to stay with family and friends."