SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement and fire investigators continue to work intentionally set house fires in Topeka. After four arson fire arrests in August, officials reported two more arson fires so far this week.
Just after 10 a.m., Monday, crews responded to a house fire at 3110 SW 30th Terrrace in Topeka, according to Fire Department Spokesperson Rosie Nichols.
Firefightgers found a small fire in the basement and were quickly able to extinguish it. All occupants self-evacuated prior to the arrival of the fire department and no injuries reported.
Just after 3 a.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a second fire at the home. When crews arrived, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the house. Firefighters began attacking the fire from the outside of the house. No occupants were found in the house.
A preliminary investigation determined the fire was intentionally set, according to Nicnols. The total estimated loss from this incident is $80,000, with $75,000 associated with structural loss and $5,000 associated with content loss.
The fire spread to an adjacent single-family home at 3120 SW 30th Terrace. Two occupants were able escape unharmed.
Just after 11:30 p.m. Monday, crews responded to a house fire at 2625 SE California Avenue in Topeka. First arriving fire crews found heavy smoke and flames coming from the one-and-a-half story house. Crews performed a primary search and found no occupants.
An investigation determined this fire was also intentionally set. The total estimated loss from this incident is $22,000, all of which is associated with structural loss.
Investigators found no working smoke detectors located within these homes. Police have not reported any suspect details or an arrest for the fires.