GREAT FALLS — A family escaped injury after a fire ripped through their home in Cascade County early Sunday.
There were three people in the home when the fire started, and they escaped unharmed. Two cats were unaccounted for and are presumed to have died in the fire, according to BRVFD.
Belt Rural Volunteer Department responded just after 2 a.m. to the fire at 31 Evans Riceville Road. The home, along with three vehicles and a horse trailer, were "fully involved" when firefighters arrived. Firefighters began defensive fire operations protecting a nearby home and garage.
The origin and cause of the fire have not yet been determined, but it is not believed to be suspicious at this time. The investigation has been turned over to the Cascade County Sheriff/Coroner's Office and Montana State Fire Marshal’s Office.
There is no word yet on the estimated cost of the damage.
BRVFD responded with one command vehicle, two engines, and two water tenders. Mutual aid was provided by Sand Coulee Volunteer Fire Department, Malmstrom AFB, Monarch VFD, and Great Falls Airport Firefighters. Belt Ambulance also responded to medical standby.
Breanna Lobdell has created a GoFundMe to help the family; she said: "Insurance will help - but in the meantime we are raising funds for the immediate food, clothing, transportation."
