Mill Woods duplex fire caused $550,000 in damages

A duplex fire in Jackson Heights Saturday evening caused more than half a million dollars in damages, fire officials said Sunday.

Emergency crews were called to the fire at a two-unit condominium, near the corner of Jackson Road and Jellett Way, just after 7 p.m. When they arrived, they found a truck, garage and one of the units on fire.

The fire was classified as out about two hours later, said fire department spokesman Corwin Odland. Damages to the building, contents and vehicle are estimated at $550,000, he said.

While initial reports indicated the fire began in the truck before spreading to the residence, Odland said investigators now believe the fire began in the garage.

Residents in the area reported hearing between three to five explosions and flames erupting through the home’s roof left a thick plume of black smoke that could be seen as far away as downtown.

Odland said investigators aren’t yet sure what caused the explosions, but have a few theories.

“We’re not sure if the explosion caused the fire or if the fire caused the explosion,” he said. “It could have been the front tires of the vehicle. They would have made a loud sound when they exploded.”

The adjoining unit was spared in the blaze, sustaining only minor smoke and water damage, Odland said.

“They were adjoining bungalows and we managed to contain it all to that one unit,” he said. “Our guys did a great job at keeping it from spreading.”

No one was injured in the blaze. The investigation continues.