Home Destroyed in Fire

The home of Bob Yarbrough on Alcovy North Drive in Mansfield was destroyed by fire Tuesday afternoon. Firefighters had a difficult time extinguishing the blaze, as the structure had evolved over many years, with three houses eventually being combined to make one.

In addition, when the fire got into the roof area, it was somewhat trapped between the old roofs and the new roof. The fire began shortly after noon, and only a handful of firefighters were available to respond to the blaze. Being a volunteer fire department, oftentimes few firefighters are in the area when they are needed.

This home was located on Jackson Lake off County Line Road in the north end of the county, and no firefighters from that station responded, likely because they were all at work out of town. No one was at home when the blaze broke out, and someone across the lake reported seeing smoke. Mr. Yarbrough and his daughter, Meriah, both arrived home while firefighters were working.

A few belongings were saved, and everything that was outside—vehicles and such—was saved. Firefighters had to bail out of the home when the fire flashed, but no one was seriously injured. The home was located in an area of the county where there are fire hydrants which proved very helpful, according to firefighters.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter or support personnel, and being able to possibly help their neighbors when they are in need should contact Melissa Slocumb or Ed Westbrook at Jasper County Emergency Services, 706-468-4930.