TOWN OF RIPON — A house in the town of Ripon was left uninhabitable and one cat died after a fire broke out Thursday morning, June 19.
At approximately 10:24 a.m., a 911 caller reported black smoke filling the residence on W13819 Skyline Circle, according to a news release from the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies and the Ripon Fire Department responded quickly. Upon arrival, they located the fire and contained it before it could spread further. A preliminary investigation suggests the fire began in a basement workshop. Authorities believe it was caused by an electrical issue involving a tool that had been plugged in.
The homeowners were not present during the fire. One cat died from smoke inhalation, but other pets were rescued safely by emergency personnel.
Though the flames were limited to the basement, the rest of the home sustained heavy smoke and soot damage, making it unlivable.
Officials say the fire does not appear suspicious, but the investigation remains ongoing.
