By Kimberly Gasuras
Observant neighbors in the 600 block of East Southern Avenue noticed a house on fire and notified the Bucyrus Fire Department at 4:39 p.m. Thursday.
According to acting fire chief Chad Schwemley, a total of four trucks overall ended up at the residence of Richard Fannin, 606 E. Southern Ave.
“The front door was on fire when the first truck arrived at the scene,” said Schwemley.
Fannin, who lives alone, was not home at the time of the fire that started in the breaker box, located beneath the front door area in the basement.
“We were able to save his cat,” said Schwemley.
Life Support Team EMS was also on the scene and gave the feline oxygen to relieve the effects of smoke inhalation.
Schwemley said the fire started in the electrical box and burned through the floor.
“A fireman’s foot went down through the floor, but he was not injured,” said Schwemley.
Firefighters were on the scene until 7:04 p.m.
“We waited on AEP to shut off electric service to the residence,” Schwemley said.
The Crawford County Red Cross was also on the scene to assist Fannin who chose to stay with a friend temporarily.
Schwemley said there is about $20,000 of damage to the home and contents.
“The homeowner is insured,” said Schwemley.