No foul play suspected in fire causing $165K worth of damage

By Brandi Makuski

Officials from the Stevens Point Fire Dept. say three students from UWSP have lost their home and belongings after a fire damaged a two-story rental house at the corner of Illinois Ave. and Main Street.

When crews arrived on the scene shortly after 9 AM Sunday, flames and smoke were visible from the home’s roof, according to SPFD Capt. J.B. Moody. He said all three people inside the building were safely evacuated.

SPFD Assistant Chief Jeff Davis exits the home at 2301 Main St. on Sunday. (City Times photo)

Along with Stevens Point fire crews, departments from Plover, Hull and Park Ridge all responded. Stevens Point police assisted, along with streets crews from the city, in closing the intersection for about five hours.

Portage Co. dispatchers also sent a city bus to the scene to serve as a warming center for firefighters. The temperature Sunday morning was about 30 below zero, but warmed to six below by mid-afternoon.

Moody said firefighters were on the scene for about six hours.

The fire causes about $125,000 in damage to the home and $40,000 in damage to personal belongings of residents, Moody added.

The nature of the fire is not considered suspicious at this time, Moody said.

The Red Cross was also on the scene to assist the students with temporary housing.