Home a total loss in Verona fire

Dec. 17--A house fire in Verona on Thursday is being called a complete loss.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, Onslow County Fire Marshal Brian Kelly said Friday.

The call came in at about 3:30 p.m. as a report of the porch being on fire at 246 Rutherford Way.

The two-story home was rented by a family of six, four children, Kelly said, that did have renter's insurance.

"Renters usually never have insurance," he said. "This is a great reminder to folks that if they rent, they need to consider renter's insurance. Their personal belongings are not covered by the homeowner's insurance. That means all of their things would be lost for good."

The family was home at the time of the blaze, but no injuries were reported as of Friday, according to Kelly.

The Red Cross responded to assist the family.

According to neighbors, the family is staying with friends in the neighborhood.

Verona Fire Department, Haws Run Volunteer Fire Department and Southwest Volunteer Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire.

Onslow County Emergency Medical Services and Haws Run EMS responded to provide care for those on scene due to the extremely cold temperatures, Kelly said.

Crews were on scene for about five hours, having the fire under control about an hour after the first units arrived on scene.

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