FIRE HEAVILY DAMAGES CAPE FAMILY'S HOME

A Cape Girardeau house was heavily damaged after a van in the adjoining garage caught fire Thursday night.

City Fire Marshal Tom Hinkebein said firefighers responded to a call to 1647 Westwood shortly after 10 p.m. The fire destroyed the garage and spread to the living quarters of the home, causing smoke and fire damage. Firefighters arrived before the structure was destroyed, Hinkebein said.

"We lost the garage, and there was heavy damage to the kitchen and living room," Hinkebein said. "But I think the kitchen on back could be worked with."

Heat from flames damaged the house next door, Hinkebein said.

The homeowner, Jessee Keele, was working on his van in the garage when the van caught fire, Hinkebein said, adding he wasn't sure how the van ignited.

Keele, his family and friends sifted through the burned remains of their home Friday. Keele said the house is valued at about $80,000.

"Well, I'm not too happy," Keele said when asked about the fire. "It kind of makes you sick."

Keele refused to comment on the origin. He said he plans to rebuild the home and hopes to start next week.