Columbus firefighters are continuing an investigation into an early morning house fire at 1728 Cottage Ave.
A mother, son and the son’s girlfriend all got out of the rental home at about 6:21 a.m. when the fire was reported. The family had as many as 10 pets, but firefighters have said that five cats have been found dead inside the home.
Firefighters said the three bedroom home is probably at a $50,000 loss plus the contents may be a total loss.
Columbus Fire Department spokesman Mike Wilson said firefighters have not located any smoke detectors in the home.
The fire started in the rear of the home and smoke and fire damage occurred throughout the structure, Wilson said.
The Salvation Army is working with the family to provide housing help, Wilson said.
For more on this story, see Saturday’s Republic.
