Local News

Actions

Neighbors say squatters to blame for house fire near Decatur and D.I.

Fire officials investigating the cause
Posted at 11:37 PM, May 01, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-02 02:46:42-04

A valley woman says her security is shattered after flames ripped through a house near Desert Inn and Decatur.

"The fear of having somebody in a place where you now it's supposed to be empty," said Kay Leonard.

The 81-year-old was in her bedroom Sunday night when she realized the home next door was on fire.

She was able to get out safely but she says the experience was terrifying.

"Is it going to take the wall out?" she said.

Leonard, whose lived in the home for more than a decade, said she's grateful her possessions weren't destroyed.

"I don't know whether I would've lived through it," she said.

Neighbors said the original owner of the home passed away several years ago.  

We're told the house had been vacant until alleged squatters broke into the garage.

Fire crews were able to prevent the spread of the flames.

The fire is under investigation.  Damages have not been estimated, said officials.