03/08/01 Structure Fire

Structure Fire, 311 Magnolia Avenue, 03/08/01

Photos Courtesy Ronnie Lane

Text from an article in the "Palatka Daily News" 03/09/01.

Fire claims Palatka home
By Andy Hall
Palatka Daily News

PALATKA ­ A late-afternoon fire Thursday claimed the second Putnam County residence in less than a week.

Three area fire departments battled a blaze at the corner of Magnolia Street and Oak Drive off U.S. 17 north. No injuries were reported, but the home of Mr. and Mrs. Otis Hill was said to be a total loss.

"The couple was at home, but on the front porch when the fire supposedly started," said Quin Romay, operations coordinator for the Putnam County Department of Emergency Services. "The grandchildren were inside and came running out, telling them there was smoke in the back of the house."

Firefighters from the Palatka, Southwest and Francis departments had the fire out in about an hour, according to Romay, who said no other structures were threatened.

The state fire marshal's office was called in to determine a cause. The Hills spent Thursday night at a relative's home, Romay said. Mr. Hill is in his early 80s, Mrs. Hill in her early 50s.

The Red Cross was called to assist with immediate needs, such as clothing and toiletries.

Last changed: June 13, 2002