Fire causes extensive damage to Columbia house

Crews from the Columbia Fire Department responded to a house fire in west Columbia early Tuesday morning.

The fire on Samantha Court was reported around 5:46 a.m. and crews arrived around 5:57 a.m. While smoke was initially visible fire was not, but crews found fire in the attic. Flames were later seen coming from the roof of the home.

At 7:00 a.m., the fire was under control, but smoke was still seen rising from the top of the house.

A woman lived alone in the house with her dog, and they both safely got out. Officials say another person was in the house. They also escaped unharmed.

Neighbors and the homeowner tell ABC 17 News they believe a lightning strike caused the fire after they saw a flash and heard a bang. Fire officials say the cause is still under investigation, but it appears to be from a lightning strike.

Officials say the fire breached the roof of the house, causing extensive structural damage. Deputy Fire Marshal Tim Bach estimates the damage to be around $100,000.

The CFD says three engines, a ladder and a rescue squad responded to the incident.