SUNBURY – Two families are displaced after a three-alarm fire at a double home in Sunbury Wednesday afternoon. Sunbury Fire Chief Brad Wertz says no injuries were reported from the fire at 231 North Sixth Street. Two pets perished in the blaze however, and the house is considered a total loss. Wertz says a state police fire marshal is still investigating the cause and its also unknown where the fire started. Estimated damages are unknown at this time as well.
Wertz says crews were on scene for about eight and a half hours. Dozens of volunteer fire crews from Northumberland, Snyder, and Union counties were dispatched just after 12:30 p.m. Wednesday. The blaze was first reported as a two-alarm fire, but a third alarm was called shortly after.
Wertz says crews encountered heavy flames and smoke upon arrival and the family on the side the fire started wasn’t home at the time. The family on the other side was home and all got out safely.
Crews also shut power down in the surrounding area until mid-afternoon Wednesday after Wertz said wires near the home were burnt. Wertz also says there is minor smoke and water damage to some surrounding homes. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced families.
