Homeowner reportedly returns from work, finds damage in residence

A house in eastern Albert lea was damaged by fire overnight Wednesday from a blaze that reportedly began in the basement.

The house, at 1701 Eberhart St., sustained minor fire damage and heavy smoke damage, according to an Albert Lea Fire Department news release.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Authorities stated a homeowner came home from work at about 7 a.m. Thursday and discovered there had been a fire in the house sometime overnight. Smoke and soot was visible throughout the entire house.

When firefighters arrived, they found the remains of a smoldering fire in the basement. They found charring and burnt areas confined to a recently constructed storage area in the basement.

A burst water line near the source of the fire may have prevented the fire from spreading.

The Fire Department reminded residents to call 911 if they see smoke or other suspicious fire-related activity at any property.

The Albert Lea Fire Department does not charge residents for service calls.