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LIBERTY TWP. — Three families are out of their homes after a residence in a townhome complex caught fire.

Firefighters responded at 10:59 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, to a report of a one unit engulfed at 6553 Lakota Pointe Drive at Lakota Pointe townhomes, said Liberty Twp. Fire Chief Paul Stumpf.

The residence of Cindy Childers was on fire, with dark smoke billowing out when firefighters arrived, but was knocked out in about 10 minutes, Stumpf said.

To provide the ventilation necessary for enhancing fire safety and reduce the chance of a backdraft, fire crews cut a hole in the roof of the townhome, which sustained flame, smoke and water damage, he said.

There were no injuries reported to any of the adults or children who evacuated the townhomes, Stumpf said.

The two units on either side of the residence that caught fire sustained smoke damage; all three families are displaced. The American Red Cross was called to assist the families.

Stumpf said damage to the townhome where the fire started was estimated at $75,000 in structural damage and $15,000 in damage to its contents. The two adjacent townhomes sustained an estimated $8,000 in damage, he said.

One occupant on the first floor of the townhome told fire officials he was frying chicken when the grease ignited.

"He attempted to put it out with a towel and the towel ignited and (the fire) spread to other objects in the kitchen," Stumpf said.

Assisting Liberty Twp. firefighters battle the blaze were firefighters from surrounding communities including Fairfield Twp., Monroe and West Chester Twp. The Butler County Sheriff's Office also was on scene.

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