Firefighters are continuing investigation into a fire that tore through a residence Saturday night, almost completely destroying the structure at 722 W. High St., Uhrichsville, that had been shared by three women and three children.

Firefighters said Sunday that Michelle Markley and her two children, Irelynn Ickes, 7, and Hayden Vance, 6; Kim Hines and 2-year-old Ronald Perez and Melissa Coverdale were not inside the home when the fire started.

Firefighters and police were summoned to the scene at 8:12 p.m. on a report of a fully involved structure fire, and police said a dark cloud of smoke could be seen, added that all the occupants were outside the home when they arrived.

During the investigation, police were informed that the women had been preparing a meal, and everyone had left for a moment, and when they returned, they found the residence in flames. A small exotic pet perished in the blaze.

Firefighters suspect a short in the stove may have started the blaze. Damages have been estimated at $45,000 to the structure and $30,000 to contents. The Red Cross was called in to aid the victims.

Dennison firefighters also assisted at the scene. (Timesreporter.com)