Fire spree hits Indianapolis neighborhood

INDIANAPOLIS — A family of five had to flee their home to safety in what was among three house fires within blocks of each other in a few hours’ time on the east side of Indianapolis.

Fire officials say two of the blazes were in vacant houses, but the family’s house had heavy flames at its front when crews arrived about 2:45 a.m. Monday.

James Jenkins tells WTHR-TV he heard a crash and thought someone was breaking in before he discovered the fire and then rushed his wife and their three children, ages 5, 7 and 9, from the house.

Jenkins’ home and one of the vacant houses were badly damaged.

Fire Lt. Larry Tracy says investigators didn’t yet know whether the fires were related or if arson was involved.