NORTHAMPTON — A fire that began in the kitchen of a home on Mary Jane Lane Monday morning caused extensive damage to the residence, according to the Northampton Fire Department.
Firefighters responded at around 11:30 a.m. to the 7 Mary Jane Lane residence after a passerby observed smoke coming from a vent, said Deputy Fire Chief Stephen Vanasse.
With smoke detectors sounding at the home, which was unoccupied at the time, firefighters entered and found a “significant fire” in the kitchen that was spreading to other parts of the ranch-style residence, Vanasse said.
Vanasse estimated damage of at least $65,000. “There is definitely heat, smoke and water damage throughout,” he said.
The cause of the fire was not immediately known, and remains under investigation, but is not believed to be suspicious, Vanasse said.
The home, valued at $260,000, is owned by Brian and Gwendolyn Leaf, according to city property records.
The American Red Cross of Western Massachusetts is assisting the residents with accommodations.
Firefighters were on scene for about 2½ hours, Vanasse said. No injuries were reported.
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com
