Early morning fire damages home of former East Ridge Mayor Mike Steele

Thursday, January 26, 2012

photo Former East Ridge Mayor Mike Steele attends a city council meeting in this file photo.

East Ridge fire and police responded to a call at 2:30 this morning at the home of former East Ridge Mayor Mike Steele, a news release said.

Steele and his wife escaped unharmed.

Firefighters arrived at the home, located at 2018 Myrtle Ave., to find flames coming from the rear basement windows and heavy smoke throughout the residence.

Fire crews contained the fire to the basement, according to a news release.

Investigators determined the cause of the fire was accidental and started around a dehumidifier, according to a news release.

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