Hixson house a total loss after fire

HIXSON, Tenn. (WDEF) — Around 3:40pm, first responders were called to Dallas Lake Road in Hixson after a neighbor called 9-1-1 reporting his neighbor’s porch was on fire.

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Officers were first on the scene, confirming the front porch was on fire and the fire was traveling into the attic.

The Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department arrived to find the home fully involved in fire.

According to fire officials, one renter, Rachel Thurman, was asleep when the fire broke out and escaped without injury. Dallas Bay Chief Fritts says that Thurman had been smoking on the porch before going to sleep.

Fire officials say the other renter, Tim Hartley, was not home at the time of the fire.

Dallas Lake Road House Fire (Photo: Hamilton County Emergency Services)

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Officials say the house is a total loss and estimate the damages at $60,000.

The home is owned by Jimmy Brown; he was notified of the fire.

The American Red Cross is assisting Thurman and  Hartley with their immediate needs.

**Photos from Hamilton County Emergency Services