Family loses furniture, clothing in Tuesday afternoon house fire

Gaffney firefighters vent smoke from an East Floyd Baker Boulevard home Tuesday afternoon. An accidental fire that started in the kitchen caused heavy smoke and heat damage throughout the home, though firefighters were able to quickly contain the blaze. Three Gaffney residents were displaced by fire Tuesday afternoon.

Gaffney firefighters were able to quickly contain a kitchen fire inside 352 E. Floyd Baker Boulevard, but Fire Chief Nathan Ellis said the home sustained heavy smoke and heat damage that likely destroyed all of the furniture and clothing.

He said the building, which was well-constructed and wellmaintained, was saved and could be remodeled. For now, however, gas and electric utilities had to be shut off.

The leased home was occupied by Brenda Gunnells, as well as her son and granddaughter, according to Ellis. He said the Red Cross was called to offer them assistance.

Capt. Robert Grigg said smoke was pouring out the front door upon firefighters' arrival. Firefighters made entry into heavy smoke and high heat conditions with hand lines and were able to contain the fire within the kitchen area, he said.

"We're fortunate no one was hurt," Grigg said. "Everything can be rebuilt." Ellis said the fire would be ruled accidental.

Firefighters from all three stations within Gaffney responded.