6 people escape Del. fire, 3 dogs killed

CHESWOLD, Del. (AP) - Officials say six people escaped a fire at a Kent County home, but three dogs died.

Firefighters called to the home on New Street in Cheswold on Tuesday morning found flames and smoke coming from the first floor of the two-story home. Six people inside escaped safely, but firefighters found three dead dogs inside.

Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio says investigators determined the fire started in a first-floor bedroom, but the cause is under investigation. He says the home was not equipped with working smoke detectors.

There was minor heat damage to a home next door. Damage was estimated at $125,000.

The American Red Cross is helping the displaced residents.