An Arundel family lost everything they owned in a devastating fire Sunday night that destroyed their home.

Deputy Fire Chief Justin Cooper said the family, including a handicapped relative who is wheelchair-bound, escaped without injury.

Their pet dog, a Boston terrier, also got out alive. The house is located at 16 Liberty Acres Drive.

The American Red Cross was notified and found temporary housing for Roger and Melody Vallee, their son and daughter and a relative.

“They lost everything, including all their personal belongings and clothing,” Cooper said.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the fire started on a front porch, but was unable to determine the exact cause because the damage was so extensive, Cooper said.

One of the homeowners called authorities at 9:54 p.m. to report that the roof of their home was on fire.

“The homeowner heard a loud pop and when she looked towards the living room she could see the reflection of flames in the windows,” Cooper said in a press release. “It was not until the fire burned down to the first floor that smoke detectors were activated.”

“We feel very lucky that the fire occurred when it did and not overnight while they were asleep,” Cooper added.

When crews arrived they found the house engulfed in flames. The roof had collapsed and the fire was spreading to several vehicles that had been parked near the home, including three cars, a pickup truck, a camper and an ATV.

Cooper said the fire not only destroyed the home, but all of the vehicles as well.

Arundel called for help, with crews from Biddeford, Goodwins Mills, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Saco responding to the fire scene.

It took crews about an hour to bring the fire under control, but firefighters remained at the home until about 1:30 a.m. Monday extinguishing hot spots.

 

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