The home of Pete Gawthrop and the Van Patton family were destroyed by fire early Tuesday morning, July 5. Photos by Deb Patterson.

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

MILFORD — A home occupied by the Pete Gawthrop family and Van Patton family at 8229 Old SR 15, Milford, was destroyed by fire early Tuesday morning, July 5.

The occupants of the home were able to escape without injury. The American Red Cross has been contacted to assist the families.

Milford Fire Department was called out at 1:30 a.m. Tuesday for a house fire. The first firefighter at the scene found flames through the roof and a fully engulfed home on fire.

A full assist was called from Turkey Creek and Tippecanoe Township fire territories, Plain Township, Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory, New Paris and Foraker fire departments. Atwood Fire Department was called to provide tanker assistance.

Milford Fire Chief Virgil Sharp said it is believed the fire started in the area connecting the two residences. The home and most of its contents are a total loss.

Kosciusko County property records show the two-story structure was built in approximately 1861. Records did not indicate when the addition was made.

Firefighters were called back out to the home around 7 a.m. when a few hot spots were located in the attic area of the one-story addition.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.