A fire Monday that destroyed a mobile home at 117 Sparks St., Gaffney, is believed to have been caused by careless smoking, said Gaffney Fire Inspector Nathan Ellis. The 3:30 p.m. fire started in the area of a living room couch in the front of the house. The owner and occupant, Jo Ann Smith, told firefighters she was smoking outside the home, but denied smoking inside the structure. She has been referred to the American Red Cross for assistance.

Ledger photo by TARA JENNINGS