State and local investigators are continuing to probe the cause of a Cornelia house fire where at least four of five dogs perished late last week.
That fire, at 116 Wood Street, was reported at 1:08 a.m. July 30. By the time police officers arrived four minutes after the call, the home was already 50% involved by fire. Officers verified all occupants except the family dogs were out of the home.
Cornelia Fire Department, Lee Arrendale State Prison Fire Department and Habersham County Med 12 were dispatched initially.
“There were five dogs in the residence,” said Lt. Josh Hazle, fire marshal for Cornelia Fire Department. “As fire units arrived minutes later, the residence was already 75% involved with heavy fire out the front and sides of the structure. Personnel requested additional assistance and County Engine 14, Battalion 1, Captain 1, and Demorest Fire Department responded. The fire was knocked down and brought under control around 2 a.m.”
Firefighters worked until just after 5 a.m. to extinguish hot spots.
The American Red Cross was called to assist the two adults and two children displaced by the fire.
“We did recover four of the five dogs,” Hazle said. “Unfortunately, they did not survive.”
The fifth dog remained unaccounted for Monday.
The Cornelia Fire Marshal’s Office along with the assistance of the State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.
Additionally, the insurance company is sending its own investigator, Hazle said.
“The investigation could take up to 30 days to complete,” Hazle said. “The fire does not appear to be suspicious. Chief Billy Jenkins would like to thank all the other departments involved for their quick response and assistance.”
