(Photos by John Faulkner)

“We still do not know the cause,” stated Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory Chief Mike Brubaker on a fire that destroyed the home of David and Nancy Wilson, 960 N. Old Orchard Drive, Warsaw, Wednesday. “Due to the partial collapse of the roof, we are going to have to take our time.”

Warsaw Fire Department was called to the fire at 12:02 p.m. Wednesday, May 20. The home is located in Deeds Creek Manor. A female at home at the time of the fire escaped the residence, as did a family dog, before arrival of the fire department.

Brubaker stated the fire went into the home’s attic quickly due to the type of construction on the newer homes. Additionally due to the amount of fire, a decision was made not to make an interior attack. The fire department was initially hampered in battling the fire due to the lack of water. No fire hydrants were close to the residence and water had to be shuttled in by tankers.

Tankers were called in to assist from Winona Lake, Atwood, Burket, Claypool, Leesburg, Mentone, North Webster, Pierceton and Winona Lake. Manpower was also provided by some departments. Once water supply was being received the fire was quickly brought under control.

Sidney Fire Department was put on standby for Pierceton Fire Department, and Silver Lake Fire Department was on standby for Claypool.

The American Red Cross was called to the scene to provide a canteen and food for approximately 50 firefighters at the scene. Firefighters were at the scene until approximately 4 p.m.

Brubaker stated the loss, including the structure and contents, is estimated at $500,000.

The home, totally 3,225 square feet of finished area, had three full baths, one half bath, four bedrooms, a dining room, a family room and a basement. There is an attached garage.