Fire damages Pirsch home

The state fire marshal is investigating the cause of a fire that damaged the roof above the family room at the Stephen Pirsch home, 904 Trott Ave. S.W., in Willmar Tuesday evening. Interim Fire Chief Jeff Gilbertson said everyone in the house evacuated safely. Willmar firefighters were called at about 4:15 p.m. and found heavy smoke coming from the roof vents and chimney. The Kandiyohi and Pennock fire departments were called for mutual aid. Fire damage was confined to the family room area but the house also suffered smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported. Fire engines included one with a 100-foot ladder that was extended over the roof line. Firefighters were on the scene for about 2½ hours.