Homosassa residence a total loss due to fire, possibly caused by a burning candle and incense
Citrus County Fire Rescue
Homosassa, Florida – At approximately 7:25 am on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to W. Oaklawn St. in Homosassa due to a reported fire.
Crews arrived at the location to find an approximately 1,500 square foot double wide mobile home 50% involved in flames. Firefighters immediately initiated an offensive attack with two handlines. Suppression efforts were conducted from the outside before entry was made through the side of the home to continue extinguishing the fire from inside. Power was secured at the outside meter. The fire was quickly brought under control by 7:46 am.
A preliminary investigation indicated that the fire originated in the master bathroom, where residents reported seeing the flames. The presence of a burning candle and incense may have contributed to the fire’s ignition. At the time of the fire, the structure was without power, and a generator connected to the breaker box was not in operation.
All occupants of the home had already safely made their way outside the residence when fire crews arrived. No injuries to firefighters or civilians were reported.
The estimated loss of the home and its contents was estimated at $200,000. Due to extensive fire, smoke, and water damage, the property is a complete loss. It is currently unknown if smoke detectors were present in the residence at the time of the fire.
Citrus County Fire Rescue urges residents to ensure they have working smoke detectors in their homes and to practice fire safety measures. Never leave a burning candle alone; always blow out candles when you leave a room, leave your home, or go to bed.
Firefighters from the Sugarmill Woods, Connell Heights, Homosassa, Pine Ridge, Kensington and Highlands fire stations responded to the scene, along with two rescue units, a safety captain, and the rehab unit from the Citrus Springs Fire Station.
In the event of a fire, dial 9-1-1.
For information about Citrus County Fire Rescue, visit its website at www.citruscountyfire.com. Its business office is located at 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd. in Crystal River, Florida; it's non-emergency phone number is (352) 527-5406.