Fire from natural gas leak damages two Bartlett homes

Bartlett fire authorities say the cause of a weekend blaze that caused an estimated $55,000 to a home, as well as minor damage to the exterior of a neighboring residence, remains undetermined.

Firefighters from the Bartlett Fire Protection District responding to the residence at 164 Sunflower Lane just after 12:25 p.m. Saturday found a well-involved outside fire extending from the ground level toward the roof of the two-story home, authorities said in a news release. The natural gas meter was leaking natural gas.

Crews quickly extinguished the outside fire and entered the home to check for fire, smoke, and natural gas odor, officials said. The house was ventilated to reduce smoke damage.

No one was home at 164 Sunflower when the fire started, and no injuries were reported, according to the fire district. The house next door, at 158 Sunflower Lane, sustained siding damage from the heat.

“We are fortunate that the fire was noticed quickly,” Fire Chief Michael Falese said. “A few more minutes and the fire could have entered the attic.”