Marsh Creek home a total loss after fire

At approximately 4:00 p.m. Friday, Historic City News learned that St. Johns County and City Fire personnel were responding to a residential structure fire in Marsh Creek subdivision.

St. Johns County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer Jeremy Robshaw reported to Historic City News that when the initial report was received, emergency operators were told that two occupants of the home heard what they described as “a loud boom”.

Shortly thereafter, the occupants encountered smoke. They were able to escape the structure unharmed and called E-911.

Firefighters found smoke pouring from the eaves and roof when they arrived at home of Dr. Warren and Lynn Kluger on Marshside Drive.

Emergency personnel searched and located a rapidly spreading fire in the attic space of the approximately 5000 square-foot structure.

Although the firefighters were able to contain and bring the fire under control, it was only after a battle that was estimated to go on for about an hour and a half, according to Robshaw.

“The home is listed as a total loss with initial damages estimated at $1 million,” Robshaw said.

Severe thunderstorms were present in the area leading officials to believe the fire was the result of a possible lightning strike; however, the cause is still under investigation by the State Fire Marshall and St. Johns County Fire Rescue.