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When firefighters arrived at the scene, heavy smoke was visible along the entire length of the T-shaped home. An early assessment of the situation led to mutual aid calls to the Marmaduke and Greenway Fire Departments. The Clay County Sheriff's Department provided traffic control since the home's close proximity to Highway 90 created a smoke hazard for passing vehicles.
The Rector Fire Department attacked the blaze with two lines. Marmaduke crews provided an additional line, as well as the presence of their tower truck, which sprayed water on the top of the structure from above. Greenway crews provided additional manpower.
The assembled crews battled the blaze for several hours, finally gaining control at approximately 12:30 a.m.
No injuries were reported. According to the fire report, Mobley and his wife were home when the fire started, but were in a separate workshop/hobby room area at the time. The fire first was noted by a passerby.
It is believed the fire began in the home's utility room, then spread to the attic and adjoining rooms. The fire report noted the home's solid wood construction created a strong burning fuel source which complicated suppression efforts. Total losses, including the structure and belongings, have been estimated in excess of $400,000.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and a study of the scene is continuing.
Power has been restored to the workshop/hobby room structure, so the Mobleys will be able to reside there for the time being.
Heat was a factor for emergency crews with air temperatures exceding 97 degrees, even away from the blaze. Because of the heat, the additional support of the Marmaduke and Greenway departments was key, with heat exhaustion a constant threat and the need for crews to rest at alternating intervals.