Cigarette source of Rossford blaze

An unattended cigarette ended up causing a major fire and tens of thousands of dollars in damage to a Rossford garage and home.

The fire in an unattached garage at 1063 S. Ironwood Rd., was reported about 7:12 p.m. and caused about $85,000 of damage, said Rossford fire Chief James Verbosky.

No injuries were reported and the family’s three cats were rescued by firefighters, the chief said.

The homeowners were having a New Year’s Day party when the cigarette was left unattended and started a fire.

Crews at the scene reported the garage was fully involved. The fire chief said strong winds made the fire difficult to extinguish.

The fire spread from the garage into the two-story home; the family is staying with relatives, Chief Verbosky said.

The Rossford Fire Department received aid from Perrysburg Township and Northwood fire departments.

The property is worth $193,000, according to the Wood County Auditor’s Web site.