Fires at unoccupied houses under investigation

Fire officials are investigating two recent house fires in Fort Scott.

At 8:35 p.m. Feb. 16, Fort Scott Police Department officers along with Fort Scott Fire Department and Bourbon County EMS personnel responded to a residential fire at 1214 S. Judson St., according to an FSPD news release.

Upon arrival, heavy black smoke was found to be emitting from inside the residence. FSFD personnel were able to extinguish the fire, however, extensive damage was done to the interior of the home, the release said.

The residence was unoccupied at the time of the incident. FSPD and FSFD investigators, along with the Office of the State Fire Marshal were called to investigate the incident, the release said.

At 10:10 p.m. Feb. 17, FSPD officers along with FSFD and Bourbon County EMS personnel responded to a residential fire at 63 W. Fifth St.

Upon arrival, the structure was found to be fully engulfed in flames. FSFD personnel were able to extinguish the fire, however, the structure was a total loss. The residence was unoccupied at the time of the fire, the release said.

FSPD, FSFD and Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office investigators, along with the Office of the State Fire Marshal were called to investigate. The investigation into both fires is ongoing, the release said.

The FSPD asks that anyone with information that could aid investigators to contact the department at 620-223-1700.