MUNCY – What began as a cooking fire got out of control and soon spread to the rest of the kitchen. Eventually, flames engulfed the entire rear half of a residence at 219 River Road in Muncy Creek Township, leaving five locals homeless.

At least two residents were home when the fire began, according to Assistant Chief Greg Delany, of the Muncy Area Volunteer Fire Co. Luckily, everyone was able to escape the home, and no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Although the cause of the fire still is under investigation, Delany said that there appeared to be nothing suspicious about the blaze.

He said the fire seems to have begun in the kitchen, and appeared to be the result of a “basic cooking accident.”

“Someone was cooking and turned their eyes off of it for a second,” Delany said.

The flames traveled from the oven, up the cabinets, and spread to the rest of the kitchen, he added.

Muncy Township firefighters responded at about 6:15 p.m. Sunday, August 11. The fire continued to escalate. Shortly, dispatchers at the Lycoming County 911 Center sent out a call requesting assistance for what was classified as a structure fire.

Firefighters from Hughesville, Picture Rocks and Pennsdale stations joined in the effort to quench the flames. With quick teamwork, firefighters managed to get the blaze under control within half an hour, according to officials.

Volunteers from the American Red Cross were called to the scene to assist the five displaced individuals, whose names authorities have not yet released. The Red Cross was able to provide the three adults and two children with food and clothing. The Red Cross has asked that those who would like to help the victims send their donations to the Red Cross office, 320 E. Third St., Williamsport.