Newport House Fire Under Investigation For Possible Arson

A house fire that broke out Thursday around 1 a.m. at 11 Newport Ave., Newport, is under investigation for possible arson. No injuries were reported.

There were around 12 people in the three story building at the time of the fire, according to fire officials. The Red Cross is working with the occupants to find housing if necessary, said Newport Deputy Chief Brian Dugan.  


The fire started on the outside of the building, directly under the first floor window. A wooden picket fence was also burning.  
 
Although the fire is similar to a string of arson fires in 2007 that all began on the exterior side of a house under the shingles, it is unknown if Thursday's fire is related to those incidents.  

The incident is under investigation. Patch will provide details as they are made available.