Fire Torches Home In Evergreen Area

EVERGREEN, Colo. (CBS4) - Fire destroyed a home in Evergreen Thursday, sending smoke high up in the air and briefly stirring wildfire concerns.

Some people in Denver could see the smoke from the fire and were worried there might be a new wildfire in the mountains.

More than 40 firefighters from multiple agencies had to work quickly to make sure the fire didn't spread to any of the nearby trees.

The home is located on Fern Gulch Road near the Bear Mountain area, south of downtown Evergreen, and the fire started at about 3:30 a.m.

"I work to a crackling noise," said neighbor Byron McClenney. "I looked out my bedroom window and saw the fire. My wife and I packed up and left."

It's not clear so far how it started but fire investigators believe it started in the garage of the home.

"We got a call from the homeowner at 3:32 a.m. and he said he, his wife and their dog got out okay," said Evergreen Fire Rescue Lt. Stacee Montague.

The two residents of the house got out okay, along with their dog. Then they tried to protect other homes.

"He said he used his garden hose and fire extinguisher on the fire," said Montague.

The water supply to fight the fire was miles away.

"There are no hydrants nearby. Crews have to go near the library in Evergreen," said Montague.

The flames were contained three hours later. The home was a total loss.