Structure fire destroys Bridgeport home, claims life of litter of puppies
BRIDGEPORT - No injuries were reported when a fire broke out north of Bridgeport Monday afternoon, completely destroying the home of James and Samantha Kittelmann.
The fire, which occurred near the intersection of Highway 385 and County Road 99, involved two trailer homes attached to one another. The Kittelmann's were not home at the time of the blaze.
James Kittelmann, who was hauling scrap metal in Scottsbluff, confirmed with News Channel Nebraska, that their home was a total loss. He says at least one litter of puppies perished in the fire, though two dogs and other animals were saved.
Kittelmann expressed his gratitude, specifically praising the swift response of the Dalton and Alliance Fire Departments. Fire departments from Bridgeport, Alliance, Broadwater, Dalton, along with the Morrill County Sheriff's Office and Morrill County Community Hospital EMS, all arrived at the scene to combat the blaze.
Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department Captain Trinette Wells says 18 personnel responded to the home completely engulfed in flames at 12:10 p.m. They cleared the scene at approximately 6 p.m.
The state fire marshal has not determined the cause of the fire. The Fire Fighter Ministry and American Red Cross have been contacted to assist the family.