Merced firefighters respond to large blaze at Loughborough-area home

No injuries were reported in a fire that erupted early Monday at a house in Merced’s Loughborough area.

The cause remains under investigation. Merced City Fire Department firefighters responded to the 3200 block of Loughborough Drive just after 5:30 a.m., said Battalion Chief Shawn Luce.

Firefighters arrived and found the garage in flames, burning through the roof. Crews contained the fire to the garage and a family room directly behind it. Luce said there was some water damage throughout the home.

The flames did cause some damage to a neighboring home, but it was mostly to the outside fascia boards.

Luce said all of the occupants of the home safely escaped. Fire crews remained on scene until about 8:30 a.m. and Red Cross is assisting the family with initial placement and ongoing support, fire officials said.

Luce said it appears the fire started in the garage and the case remains under investigation. Damage is estimated to be $100,000 to $150,000.

Around 17 fire personnel including four engines, one truck and two battalion chiefs responded to the scene.