Plywood covers the second floor window and front door following a fire at the home of Joe Todd Jr., 11169 N. Wawasee Circle East, Cromwell, Monday evening, April 3. The windows on the second floor were blown out due to the excessive heat inside the residence. Two other windows in the back of the home were also blown out.

Text and Photos
By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

CROMWELL — A home at 11169 N. Wawasee Circle East, Cromwell, was extensively damaged by smoke and water Monday night, April 3. The cause of the fire is undetermined.

Turkey Creek Fire Territory was called at 5:54 p.m. to the home. The initial report was that a fireplace or woodburning stove caused a fire that may have spread to the attic.

The occupant, Joe Todd Jr., his dog and several cats were able to escape the home without injury.

When firefighters arrived they found heavy smoke coming from the home, but no flames. Excessive heat did cause four windows to break out.

Sparta Township was initially called for manpower and tanker assistance and Tippecanoe Township Fire Territory was requested for tanker assistance and later manpower.

The scene was brought under control at 6:51 p.m.

Turkey Creek Fire Territory Fire Chief Mickey Scott reports approximately 5,000 to 6,000 gallons of water were used. A hydrant at Pier 343 was used to refill tankers.

The cause, according to Scott, remains undetermined. Damage has been estimated up to $60,000.

The home, according to county records, is owned by Doris and Darrell Stahly, Goshen.

While there were no flames showing when firefighters arrived, fire damage can be seen around the chimney at the residence and the access firefighters created to reach the attic area of the home.