Authorities investigate two early morning fires in Cape Girardeau

An investigation continues into an early morning fire that began in a vehicle parked inside a carport and quickly spread to two Cape Girardeau homes.

According to Fire Department Chief Rick Ennis, at 4:53 a.m. crews responded to a home at 1863 Big Bend Road. Firemen found the home and car engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading to a neighboring house at 1901 Big Bend Road.

Jackson Fire and Rescue members assisted in extinguishing the flames by 5:25 a.m.

Ennis said the family inside the home at 1863 Big Bend Road escaped unharmed while crews rescued a dog, the only occupant inside the home at 1901 Big Bend Road.

The home at 1863 Big Bend Road suffered extensive damage while the house at 1901 Big Bend Road sustained fire damage to its attic. Approximate damage to both structures was $85,000.

The Southeast Missouri Chapter of the American Red Cross reported that it made contact with the two families and is assisting them with any immediate needs.

"Disasters like home fires can be traumatizing," Jamie Koehler, director of Emergency Services for the local American Red Cross chapter, said in a written statement. "Long-term recovery is critical, and we work with individuals to help them prevent, prepare for and respond accordingly."