Newton Fire Ruled Accident

Fire officials in Catawba County worked for two hours to contain a three-alarm house fire Wednesday morning in Newton.

VIDEO: Multiple fire crews battle three-alarm Newton blaze

It happened around 7:15 a.m. on Startown Road.

Authorities say the home was badly damaged.

Crews say a lack of hydrants made the blaze difficult to fight.

Traffic was tied up and extra police had to be called out to help with bystanders.

Nobody was home at the time of the blaze.

The fire was ruled accidental.

Officials say the fire may have started in the kitchen area.