Lightening strike to blame for Leawood house fire

The Leawood Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Tuesday, August 19, around 6 pm at a residence near 119th Street and Cherokee Drive. 

When crews arrived, they found heavy smoke coming from the roof and attic. The fire spread quickly and  additional resources were called to the scene to assist. Firefighters initially attempted an interior attack but  transitioned to defensive operations when the fire became fully involved. Aerial apparatus were used to help  bring the fire under control. 

The fire was fully extinguished later yesterday evening, and investigators immediately began working to  determine the cause. Following an investigation, officials determined the most likely cause of the fire to be a  lightning strike. Weather reports confirmed multiple lightning strikes were recorded near the residence during  a storm that moved through the area earlier that morning. 

No residents were home at the time, and there were no civilian injuries. Two Leawood firefighters sustained  minor injuries during the response and were treated and released. 

The Leawood Fire Department thanks neighboring agencies for their assistance and reminds residents to ensure  their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms and emergency plans in case of fire.