Published June 11 2013
NEWCASTLE - Bellevue Fire crews Monday responded to a report of a residential structure fire and found heavy flames and smoke coming from the kitchen area of a single-family home on the 8800 block of 122th Court Southeast. Firefighters had the blaze under control by 7:52 p.m., less than 20 minutes after the call came in.
Crews were able to extinguish the fire with a quick and aggressive attack. A primary and secondary search were made and the "all clear" for occupants was given. Additional fire personnel assisted with ventilating smoke and checking the rest of the structure. Two Bellevue fire engines, two ladder trucks, a paramedic supervisor and two battalion chiefs responded. An Eastside fire engine responded with the initial assignment for more assistance, but was canceled when the on-scene crews rapidly brought the fire under control.
The homeowner was not at home at the time of the fire, but did show up at the scene after fire crews had extinguished the fire. One occupant was asleep inside the residence and was awakened by a neighbor who rushed to assist.
Bellevue fire investigators are working with the homeowner and occupant for more information and are conducting an investigation. The investigation is focused on the kitchen area but the actual cause remains undetermined. Initial damage estimate is about $200,000 to both structure and contents.
There were no injuries to firefighters working at the scene nor occupants. There were four people displaced by the incident, two adults and two children. Red Cross was on scene assisting with logistics. Two Great Dane dogs will be housed in Issaquah for the time being.
There were no working smoke detectors in the home. The Bellevue Fire Department urges all homeowners to check your batteries in your smoke detectors at least every six months to assure they are in properly working order.