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Investigators suspect arson in Westside house fire

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A neighbor’s doorbell camera captured flames destroying a home on Sonora Drive in Jacksonville Tuesday.

“It looked like it started in the back, then it just got huge,” neighbor Mike Ohren said.

The flashing lights of emergency vehicles lining the road woke him and other families.

The fire chief tells Action News Jax no one was home when firefighters got there. He said the roof collapsed and the damage inside was extensive.

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“Luckily the houses are far apart and it’s a block home so everything was kind of upward,” Ohren said.

Action News Jax watched as fire marshal investigators and a K-9 searched for clues about what started the fire.

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They are now investigating it as arson.

Action News Jax called the listed homeowner and a realtor who had listed the property for sale. The realtor said the owner moved out seven months ago, and they were working on a short sale.

Action News Jax asked the fire marshal’s office why they suspect arson. A spokesperson said they can't release any additional information because of the ongoing investigation.

Neighbors said they’re glad no one was hurt, and no other homes damaged.​

Statement from the fire marshal's office:

"Yes, we are investigating this fire as arson. We encourage residents to report Arson Tips through the Arson Tip Hotline at 1-877-NO-ARSON (662-7766). Any information leading to a successful arrest and prosecution may be eligible for a cash reward.

With this being an open and ongoing case no additional information can be released at this time.​"

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