Two Cats Die in House Fire

A Palm Harbor family escaped from their burning home on the Fourth of July, but two family cats did not survive the blaze, according to a spokesperson for Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Firefighters were called to the home at 1436 Pennsylvania Ave. just after midnight Wednesday. Residents Robert Hampton, 50, Barbara Hampton, 53, and Shelley Lynn Hampton, 18, escaped unharmed. One family cat also survived the blaze.

Investigators have not been able to determine the exact cause of the fire. They say it started in bags of old clothing that were leaning against the wooden garage door. The State Fire Marshall is close to wrapping up the investigation, according to Liz Monforti, spokesperson for Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Thursday morning, boards covered the front of the burned-out garage. Charred coolers and other items were strewn outside on the pavement and lawn. An ash-covered garden hose, which appeared to have been used to fight the fire, dangled from a car parked in the driveway.

Damage to the home is estimated at $100,000.