Friday House Fire In Sussex County Caused By Malfunctioning Lawnmower

File

The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal is actively investigating a residential fire that occurred in Millsboro this morning.

Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal John Galaska said the fire was reported shortly after 11:00 A.M. in the 32000 block of Robin Hoods Loop in Millsboro. Upon arrival, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company encountered heavy fire coming from a single-family dwelling. Additional support was provided by responding mutual aid fire companies.

Deputies from the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office were summoned to conduct an investigation to ascertain both the origin and cause of the fire. The investigation concluded that the fire was accidental, originating in the interior garage area of the home. It appears to have been triggered by a malfunction in a recently parked riding lawnmower said Galaska.

At the time of the fire, the dwelling was occupied, however, the occupants noticed the fire in time and managed to evacuate safely, avoiding injuries. There were no other injuries reported. The damage incurred by the fire is estimated to be around $250,000.