STRONGSVILLE, Ohio — One person is dead following a house fire in Strongsville Saturday afternoon.
Officials say firefighters were called to the home on the 14900 block of Sherwood Drive around 1:24 p.m., and first responders found heavy smoke coming from the back of the structure. Not knowing if anyone was inside, crews began attacking the flames and searching for victims, putting the fire out about 10 minutes after the initial 911 call from a neighbor.
Upon further investigation, the unidentified victim as well as two dogs were found deceased inside. The exact cause of the blaze is currently unknown.
Firefighters from Brunswick and Middleburg Heights assisted members of the Strongsville department during the incident. Authorities believe the house sustained roughly $200,000 worth of damages.
Members of the Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office as well as the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will assist Strongsville police and fire officials with the ensuing investigation.