Family escapes burning home in Benton County

RICHLAND, Wash.-- A Benton County man noticed smoke coming from a room that was being used as an office, went to get a fire extinguisher, and returned to find the room in flames.

The fire was reported at 12:47am Monday at the home in the 99700 block of E. Kase Blvd. off of Cottonwood.

"The flames got into the attic and pretty much burned the roof right off," said Benton County Fire District 1 chief Lonnie Click.

The homeowner told fire officials that the fire appeared to start near a photocopier, and he tried to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher, but it quickly grew out of control.

A homeowner reported that a fire started near a photocopier early Monday morning, and quickly grew out of control. (Photo: Michael Gennarelli)

The homeowner, his wife, and their children got out of the house safely.

The house and at least one car were destroyed in the blaze.

The Benton County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation.