Fire Damages South C Street Home in Arkansas City

ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department responded to a residential structure fire Sunday evening in the 700 block of South C Street.

At approximately 5:35 p.m., multiple units, including Engine-52, Tanker-51 and Battalion-51, were dispatched to the scene. Automatic aid was provided by Winfield Fire/EMS and the Udall Fire Department.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a two-story wood-frame residence with visible fire coming from the southeast corner of the first floor and heavy smoke coming from the second floor. Firefighters entered the home, confirmed all occupants had safely exited and quickly brought the fire under control.

Crews remained on scene for several hours to check for hot spots and ensure the fire was fully extinguished.

The fire originated in the kitchen on the stovetop after a burner was accidentally left on. The occupant escaped without injury.

The fire caused significant damage to several rooms on the first floor, along with smoke damage throughout the home. Estimated damage is approximately $25,000 to the structure and $15,000 to contents.

Fire Marshal Gary Bowker reminded residents that cooking fires are the leading cause of residential fires. This incident marks the second cooking-related residential fire at a separate home in Arkansas City in the past week.

Residents are encouraged to stay attentive while cooking and never leave home if a stovetop or oven is in use.