The Riley County Fire Department was called to 9214 Blue Ridge Rd, about ten miles north of Manhattan around 1:16 Thursday morning for a structure fire. When volunteers from the Blue River Hills fire station arrived, the two occupants were outside in a van and the fire had consumed all but one wall of the garage. The roof and other three walls had already fallen in the basement and several grass fires were sparked from the blaze across the street. About 3 acres of grass burned. Firefighters worked feverishly to keep the blaze from extending to the neighboring residence. The home and the Toyota 4-Runner in the garage are considered a total loss and it is estimated at over $200,000. The owner of the home is listed at Joe E. Jr. and Nancy Moore.
Riley County EMA responded as well and treated both occupants for smoke inhalation, but no transport was required. All fire units were clear from the scene by 4:30 AM. The cause of the fire is undetermined due to the extent of damage, though the home owner thinks that it started near the propane furnace.
