The Missouri State Fire Marshal is investigating a fire at 741 N. 10th St. where Poplar Bluff firefighters spent three hours shortly after midnight battling a blaze.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
A caller at 12:35 a.m. Friday reported a single story wood frame structure at 10th and Spring streets had heavy flames coming from both side of the building. A second caller minutes later said the fire was spreading to the house next door.
According to Battalion Chief Stacy Harmon’s report, crews went inside through two sides of the building to attack the fire. A ventilation hole was cut in the roof and fire was extinguished.
Firefighters used 5,000 gallons of water. They also used a thermal imaging camera to confirm no fire remained in the walls.
Harmon’s report stated there was no power or gas service coming into the house.
Neighbors at the scene informed authorities squatters were seen coming and going from the house.
The property is owned by Robert Pinkston of Poplar Bluff.
Firefighters also at the scene were Austin Armes, Capt. Chad Bell, Joshua M. Buhler, Kenneth Felts, Lt. Andrew E. Fox, Lt. Jonathan D. Miller, Fire Chief Michael Moffitt, Tanner Tibbs and Capt. Toby Tuggle.
One crew was called back to stand by for possible incoming calls.
Butler County EMS and Poplar Bluff Police officers also were on the scene.