Reading PA Fire Department

Box 134 was dispatched around 04:00 this morning for a report of a house fire in the 400 block of Strong Alley, located in the rear of the 400 block of Minor Street. Apparatus arrived on location and found fire blowing out several windows at 418 Strong Alley. Occupants had evacuated the home by the time firefighters arrived.

An 1 3/4 line was stretched into the dwelling and the fire was attacked head on. Two rooms on the 2nd floor were heavily involved but crews had the visible flames blackened down within 20 minutes. The fire had extensively damaged the interior and firefighters needed another hour to overhaul the upper floors and burned contents.

The Fire Marshal's office is investigating the fire, firefighters believe a candle may have been involved. Investigators are also checking on a delay in the time the fire was discovered and the first call to 911. Engines 5, 1, 3 and 13 safety, Tower 1, Ladder 1, Rescue 1 and Cars 4 and 8 responded.

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