SMITHVILLE — A house fire July 29 left only smoking ruins at the corner of Harris Street and Southwest Second Street in Smithville. Neighbors said the blaze was visible for miles and left the structure a total loss. The lone occupant of the house reportedly escaped without injury. Two volunteer Smithville fire stations are located within blocks of the home, but officials said response was delayed slightly due to an active train blocking one route and a separate emergency at the city’s hospital. Firefighters were on scene within 10 minutes despite the obstacles, according to the city. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Courtesy photo
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