Amanda Vaughan
Northern News Services
Published Friday, January 25, 2008

YELLOWKNIFE - The occupants of the house that was destroyed in a raging fire last week are distraught at the loss of their home but thankful for the community support.

"Everything is lost ... all our lifelong possessions ... it's a trying time," said homeowner James Lawrance.

The fire department has ruled that the 53 Street house fire which had crews working all night last week was accidental. - Amanda Vaughan/NNSL photo

"We just want to express our heartfelt thanks for the many, many people who responded with care and concern."

Lawrance said he and his son, A.J., were out of town at the time of the fire, and his wife, Helen Kodzin, was out shopping. She returned in a taxi to discover the scene after firefighters had arrived. The family had no pets. Lawrance said the important thing was no one was hurt, including the fire crews.

Community members have set up a trust account at the CIBC, and there is talk of a benefit concert involving local musicians.

"My family and I are deeply grateful," he said.

The fire department has determined the blaze was accidental, and ceased further investigations.

"There is no evidence to point to anything else," said Deputy Fire Chief Merlin Klassen.

The fire started in a "mechanical area" in the basement of the home, according to the department's investigation, and Klassen said further searching would be time consuming and dangerous, considering the state of the structure.

"We are comfortable with our assessment," Klassen said.

A neighbour alerted the fire department after the fire broke out some time before 9 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 17. Fire crews arrived and quickly searched the home, but the fire had already spread up from the basement into the main floor, and crews were only able to contain it.

The scene was cordoned off and alleys blocked to keep onlookers from getting too close.

As many as 20 firefighters worked on the home all night, with the last truck leaving at 8:30 the next morning. Klassen said the damage has been estimated at $500,000.