Thursday House Fire in Altamont Still Under Investigation

An investigation continues into the cause of a fire that did substantial damage to a home in Altamont early Thursday morning.

Firefighters were caled to Tower Lane in Altamont at 3:38am. Tower Lane is a short street between Schmidt Park and Zink Apartments.

Altamont Fire Chief Jon Becker said the house is owned by Judy Oldham, who is the sole occupant. Oldham escaped safely. Becker said there's some indication that Oldham's cats alerted her to the fire and led to her safe escape.

Becker said the fire started in the northeast corner of the house, and said he considers the structure a total loss.

The cause of the fire has not been determined. Becker said information received over the weekend led him to request a representative of the Illinois State Fire Marshal's Office to look into the fire.

Altamont firefighters received assistance at the scene from St. Elmo and Brownstown firefighters, while Effingham firefighters provided station coverage in case of another call. Also assisting were the Effingham County Sheriff's Office, A-1 Ambulance and Rural Med EMS. 

Crews cleared the scene at 6:15am.