SPRINGFIELD, MA - An early evening structure fire in the south end neighborhood of Springfield on Saturday, November 20th, displaced five residents and did an estimated $100,000 in damage to the single-family dwelling at 45 Loring Street.

Springfield Jakes were called to respond to the reported address just before 6:00 P.M., and first-in companies arrived to find smoke and fire venting from the home less than six minutes after dispatch. Engines began stretching on the dwelling while the truck companies began ventilation work, but the fire already had a terrific head start on the members before the first line was laid. Crews on scene fought hard but the fire took hold in the attic of the home, and for several minutes early in the fire fight, four-foot flame tongues vented from the roof.

The fire was brought under control just over one hour after dispatch, but companies remained on scene for nearly an hour more overhauling the building and checking for hot spots. No injuries were reported. The Arson Squad determined that the fire started due to a cooking mishap in the kitchen of the home.