CARBONDALE -- A fire in Lackawanna County last month gained attention because of some heroic efforts by a family dog. State Police are now saying that fire in Carbondale was arson.
State Police Fire Marshals told us today that the fire last month on Sand Street in Carbondale is considered arson. The fire destroyed a double block house, two firefighters were hurt, and a family of six was left homeless.
When you look at the burned out shell of this double-block house on Sand street, it makes you feel cold. Monday's snow fell through the collapsed roof.
But, just two weeks ago, it burned red-hot. Crews spent several hours fighting a fire there and state police now say it was set on purpose.
Neighbors have speculated ever since that night.
"I feel bad for the people who lived there, it was really late and cold that night. And the firemen, too, you felt bad for because they were out here for hours," said neighbor Ed Malaker.
A family of six was forced out by that fire. Chris Julian, Kelly Yarbrough and their four children. We told you their story about their dog, Lou, who was credited with saving their lives.
Trudi Sona was the family's landlord and lives next door.
"Well, it`s shocking, I want to know who did it. You know, if they're still walking out there this could be somebody else`s house next. And you know, somebody could get hurt," Sona said.
An arson at 14/16 Sand Street, the owners said, makes for three crimes that have happened along that part of Sand Street in the past month. Besides the fire, the owners say a truck was stolen from out here behind the property, plus the tires on another truck were slashed.
Police have not said if they think those crimes are connected. State Police Fire Marshals are still in the early stages of their arson investigation. Marshals will not say how they know the fire was set, but they say it started on some steps leading to the attic.
"I just hope that they catch who did it, and they pay for the crime. I mean, because they could have burnt all three of us out, that`s how close it is," said next-door neighbor Raymond Sona.
Newswatch 16 made efforts to reach the family who lived in that home. Their former landlord said the family is staying with friends.
Anyone with information on the arson is asked to call State Police in Dunmore.
