SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO-AM) - Thick, acrid smoke filled the air Sunday evening, as crews responded to a house fire on a busy street in Southeast Sioux Falls. Metro Communications dispatched the call at 5:26 pm
The residence, on the 3700 Block of South Bahnson Avenue was billowing a plume of smoke that could be seen for several miles, drawing the attention of a large crowd of curious on-lookers. Click to see the video here: https://youtu.be/nIZ2bOhpEnQ
Battalion Chief Jim Powers says it was a neighbor that alerted the family living at the house of the blaze, initially believed to be in the garage area. The family of six escaped without injury. Several vehicles parked in the driveway and the garage were destroyed in the fire
The home had major damage from fire, smoke and water..
The fire spread and extended quickly, with pieces of the roof seen falling off as the battle to control the flames escalated.
Crews used a ladder truck for an aerial attack and the buzzing of a chain saw could be heard as teams ventilated the home's roof. The fire was brought under control after a nearly hour long fight.
Popping sounds and a distinct small explosion could be heard minutes after KELO DOT COM News arrived, and you can see and hear it for yourself in the video link attached.
We later found out this may have been ammunition in the home, as those watching were backed off due to the potential hazard.
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue responded with 25 Firefighters, Battalion Chief, Inspector, Chaplain, support vehicles and 5 fire trucks. Police handled traffic control at the scene, which is on a busy east side thouroughfare. Paramedics Plus also responded.
Red Cross of the Dakotas is assisting the family. No first responder injuries were reported. Cause of the fire is under investigation.
A crew remained on scene to monitor for flare-ups.
We'll update the story as details become available.