Fireworks ​Believed To Be Cause Of Fire That Destroyed FishHawk Home

LITHIA, FL — Fire investigators believe fireworks ignited a fire that destroyed a FishHawk Ranch home during the late-night hours of July 4.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was called to a home on Soratrace Street in FishHawk Ranch at 9:47 p.m. Monday by a resident who said a fire spread from the garage to the home.

Engine 44 was first on the scene and confirmed heavy smoke and flames through the roof of the garage and central part of the house. Crews began attacking the blaze while protecting neighboring homes.

Aerial access was unavailable due to overhead obstructions, and access to the rear of the home was difficult, leading to a prolonged firefighting operation, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reported.

The homeowner reported rescuing two of his three dogs, but the third was unaccounted for hours into the operation. There were no injuries to civilians or first responders.

The homeowner reported disposing of fireworks believed to be extinguished in a cardboard box in the garage, but did not use water. Investigators believe the heat of the fireworks started the fire in the box, which rapidly spread throughout the garage and the home.