DeKalb Duplex Suffers $250,000 Damage in Fire Caused by Thawing Pipes

DEKALB — A duplex on East Lincoln Highway in DeKalb suffered $250,000 in damage Saturday after a fire, reportedly caused by residents using a torch to thaw frozen pipes, broke out in the basement. Fire crews arrived at 12:42 p.m. to heavy smoke and flames, and the alarm was upgraded to a general alarm with mutual aid requested due to weather conditions. The DeKalb Fire Department says the fire spread quickly through the second floor and attic, and it took four and a half hours to bring the blaze under control. Three firefighters were treated for minor injuries and two residents were displaced. The structure was declared uninhabitable. Authorities warn residents to exercise caution with heating appliances and frozen pipes during cold weather.