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Fire officials are investigating the cause of a blaze that destroyed a Pleasant Grove house late Thursday night.
Three people were on the back deck of a house near 800 West and 1200 North around 11 p.m. when they noticed a fire in the garage, according to Pleasant Grove Fire Marshal Steve Brande. The residents called 911 but the flames quickly spread to the rest of the house before firefighters arrived at the scene.
The garage was completely destroyed, as was most of the western portion of the two-story home. A truck and an SUV that were parked in the driveway suffered heavy damage as well.
A neighbor's fence and shed were also damaged by the fire. Fire officials are estimating the damage to the house at about $300,000.
Several neighboring houses were evacuated, but the residents were later able to return to their homes. No injuries were reported.
A fund has been set up for the homeowners, Todd and Heather Christopher. Donations can be made at any Zions Bank location.
On Friday, neighbors collected clothing and other essentials for the Christophers.
"The neighborhood has really come together in helping them out. There's even little kids going around with wagons asking neighbors if they want to donate food to these people who have lost everything," said Cindy Gordon, a friend of the Christophers.
The Christophers are staying in the basement of a neighbor's house across the street. The couple has beds but neighbors are trying to get other furnishings for their temporary home.
"We just want them to be able to come home and lay down and rest," said neighbor Sharon Carter.
Brande said the cause of the fire was likely accidental. Electricity or the spontaneous ignition of paint rags may be to blame, he said. Gasoline cans and other flammable items in the garage contributed to the fast spread of the fire.
• Jeremy Duda can be reached at 344-2561 or
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