Plain Township/Leesburg Fire Department was called to a home on the southeast side of Chapman Lake just before 10:30 p.m. Wednesday for what started as a chimney fire but quickly evolved into a working structure fire.

A home on Chapman Lake is believed to be a total loss after a fire reportedly started in the home’s chimney. County GIS records indicate the home is owned by Warsaw attorney Chris Kehler. (Photo provided by Rob Blackford)

When firefighters arrived and entered the home at 47 EMS C18 Ln., Warsaw, they discovered fire visible through the second floor ceiling can lighting. At that same time, fire crews on the exterior of the residence also noted the entire attic along the north side of the residence was involved in a working fire.

Warsaw – Wayne Township Fire Department was requested for equipment, manpower and additional water supply tanker assistance. Multi-Township Emergency Medical Service was requested as a stand by precaution.

Damages to the home, owned by Warsaw attorney Chris Kehler, are estimated at $172,000.

Firefighters placed portable pumps at the edge of the Chapman Lake channel on the property for additional water supply but were hampered by frozen surface water in the channel, along with bitter cold temperatures. Fire crews from both departments were on scene until approximately 3 a.m. extinguishing spot fires and assisting the home owners in removal of furnishings.

The area of fire origin is believed to be the confined structural chase in which the flue for the fireplace was located. The preliminary determination is the fire was accidental.

There were no injuries to firefighters or the occupants.