FORT MILL, S.C. — Investigators believe a fire that ripped through a home in Fort Mill originated in the family’s SUV.
First responders were called to the home on Morel Avenue around 10 a.m. Tuesday.
[IMAGES: Firefighers battle house fire in Fort Mill]
When firefighters arrived at the scene, a white SUV in the family’s driveway and a portion of the home were engulfed in flames.
Chopper 9 flew overhead as more than two dozen firefighters from several departments battled the fire.
Neighbors watched in disbelief.
“I saw the mom come up and just drop to her knees when she saw it,” said Sean Quental. “It was just devastating.”
The Portello family, including three children, wasn’t home at the time of the fire.
But the family’s dog, Glory, had to be pulled from the burning home.
The family is thankful their beloved pet is OK.
Officials have not yet confirmed how the SUV caught fire.
The family told Channel 9 they had left the home about 20 minutes prior to the incident.
The American Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the family.
No injuries were reported.
Chopper 9 flew over the scene where heavy smoke was pouring out of the roof of the home. There were a couple of vehicles at the home that appeared to be damaged.
A pastor who has known this family for several years said he noticed the smoke from his church and rushed to the scene.
He told Channel 9 that the hearts of the people in the community go out to the family.
“Our Baden community is rallying around them. We're all eager to see good will be made out of bad," Robert Rummage said.
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