Fire destroys house in Winterville

The following concerning a house fire on Oakmont Circle in Winterville was released by the Athens-Clarke County Fire and Emergency Services Department:

On October 29 at approximately 5:00 pm, B-Shift firefighters responded to a well involved house fire in Winterville. First arriving units began a swift attack on the main body of fire found in the garage.

Next arriving units attempted to begin an interior operation, but due to deteriorating conditions, including a roof collapse, had to withdraw to additional defensive positions.

Good job to all crews on containing the fire, and preventing further spread. Additionally, no injuries reported.

It is unknown if there were working fire alarms, but one resident was sleeping at the time of the fire, and was able to escape without harm, highlighting the increasing importance of working smoke detectors.

Units involved were as follows: Engine 26, Engine 25, Engine 29, Ladder 1, Ladder 7, Rescue 4, Winterville 1, Car 31 and Car 34.

Cause is currently under investigation.