Dubois firefighters called to 2 fires Sunday afternoon; One displaced a family

Updated: Details on the family’s needs are outlined at the end of the story.

Original: A house fire temporarily displaced a Dubois family Sunday afternoon.

Dubois Volunteer firefighters were called to the report of a house fire at 4660 Zehr Road south of Dubois at about 12:06 p.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found smoke in the home and heavy smoke coming from the eaves at the rear of the 30 by 70 modular home. There were also flames coming through the roof over the top of the dining room area.

Firefighters tore out half the ceiling on the north side of the house and extinguished the flames. Firefighters reported that a 10-by-10 foot area did burn through the ceiling above the dining room.

The home is owned by Skeeterville LLC out of Dubois and was being rented out to Jennifer Caffrey and Anthony Beckham. The couple told firefighters they had just moved into the home about six days ago and had been living in an apartment in Dubois.

The two were at home at the time of the incident. The couple stated that they were working outside the home when Mr. Beckham noticed smoke coming from the rear of the home. They ran to the home where they were able to get a cell phone and call in the fire.

The fire appears to have started in the ceiling but it is undetermined how. The house will not be habitable for some time until repairs are made. The couple will be staying in a hotel room furnished by the American Red Cross.

Firefighters helped move out several of the couple’s belongings before leaving the scene.

No one was injured in the incident. Three fire trucks with 32 firefighters were on scene for about an hour and a half.

After returning to the fire station, Dubois Volunteer Firefighters were called out for the report of a debris fire at 5473 E. Liberty Street in Dubois.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a compost heap that was burning in a garden. The heap was actually burned Saturday but with the wind Sunday, the heap rekindled.

Firefighters extinguished the fire and departed the scene shortly thereafter.

The same 32 firefighters responded to this scene with two trucks and were on scene for about ten minutes.

Dubois Watch is working on a donation drive. Please send a Facebook message for donations; items could be picked up if needed. Donations can also be dropped off at Dubois High School.

The family is in need of clothing, kitchen items and bedding.