The fire that heavily damaged a Rabun County quadplex Tuesday has been ruled arson.
Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King announced the determination by the State Fire Investigations Unit on Wednesday.
“The Camp Creek Road home was roughly 20 years old and 2,600 square feet,” King said in a statement. “The Florida-based property owner converted the home into four residential apartment units. My investigators believe the fire started in a basement that was being used for storage.”
Anyone with information about the fire may call Georgia Arson Control at (800) 252-5804. The 24-hour tip line accepts anonymous calls.
One person was evaluated by medical personnel at the scene of Tuesday’s fire, but refused transport.
“Engine 4 arrived to a two-story, multifamily dwelling on a basement with fire through the basement entry door and garage door,” said Rabun County Assistant Fire Chief Justin Upchurch. “Fire was spreading rapidly up into the apartment above the basement. Initial attack was through the basement and then was moved to the main floor. The fire was brought under control in approximately 20 minutes.
“One apartment sustained heavy fire damage with fire breaching the floor,” Upchurch said. “Another sustained fire and water damage, and the end apartment sustained smoke damage. The finished attic, accessible only from the outside, sustained smoke damage.”
Rabun County Fire Services responded to the fire at 1359 Camp Creek Road, Lakemont, at 10:32 a.m.
