A family of four has been left homeless after fire gutted their historic home near St. Thomas.
Southwold Township firefighters were called to the home on Fingal Ln., west of John Wise Ln. around 3:30am Sunday.
Fire Chief Gary Wilson says the home was completely engulfed by flamed when crews arrived. The family and their dog made it out safely but the family cat was killed in the blaze.
"At that time of night without advance warning it could have been rather tragic. Thankfully, the smoke alarms in the home worked and the family made it out," says Wilson.
Damage is estimated at approximately $250,000.
"It was a century home, circa 1850, which contributed to the fast spread of the fire," says Wilson. "We have determined the area of origin was around the woodstove. It is not a suspicious fire."
