Lecanto Fire: Pets Saved, Home Lost

0:00It's April 21st, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Tampa Bay News today, local news powered by AI. Firefighters in Lakanto, Florida tackled a fierce blaze at a mobile home on South Riven Point Saturday afternoon. The call came in just before 3.30 pm, with flames shooting from the roof and spreading into the attic. No one was home, but the fire caused major damage before crews knocked it down. They hit the scene fast, pouring water on the flames until the roof partly caved in. By 4.43 pm, the fire was out, but not without leaving heavy smoke and water damage everywhere, especially up in the attic. The real heartbreak came with the pets inside. Firefighters pulled out several cats and reptiles, saving one cat and most of the reptiles, but sadly, another cat and one reptile didn't make it, that's two lies lost in the chaos. Firefighters point to an electrical issue near an outside dick as the likely spark, calling it accidental. No foul play, just a reminder of how outdoor wiring can turn deadly if not checked.

1:05Citrus County Fire Rescue is urging folks to inspect exterior electrical gear regularly, test those smoke alarms, and map out escape plans that include your furry or scaly family members to avoid repeats like this. Stay safe out there.