Texas man sets fire to house with pets inside

20 firefighters called to scene, controlled fire in 15 minutes; Chihuahua inside was killed, but cat escaped without injury

October 25, 2011 07:45 AM

By Alyssa Johnston
The Times Record News

WICHITA FALLS, Texas — A fire in the 1900 block of Minnetaska Avenue resulted in a man’s arrest about 3:30 p.m. Monday.

Firefighters who arrived at the scene off Seymour Road immediately requested police for a disturbance in the backyard. Witnesses said a man at the home had set the house on fire following a domestic squabble, leaving animals inside.

Investigators would not comment on the circumstances of the fire.

Battalion Chief Todd Mudd said eight units dispatched with 20 firefighters. Police officers blocked nearby streets to traffic.

Thefirewas under control in 15 minutes, according to Mudd. Most of the damage was to the interior of the frame home. No one was harmed, but a Chihuahua was killed. Another animal inside the house at the time, a cat, escaped. Fire Marshal David Collins is investigating the fire for a cause and to determine the extent of damages.

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