RIVERSIDE, Calif. --
A house fire broke out in Riverside Sunday morning, destroying the home and killing the family dog, said officials.The fire started at around 4:40 a.m., and officials believe it was sparked by an electrical problem. A witness reported the fire in the 4900 block of Red Bluff Road, near Challen Avenue and Noble Street. A couple and their son were able to escape the flames without injury. However, the family dog was found dead on the home's back patio, where the fire was believed to have started.
Authorities said that family members recalled a faint smell of smoke around midnight, but they did not repot it.
The house was destroyed in the fire, with the loss amounting to approximately $200,000. The home burned for about 40 minutes before fire crews put it out.
The American Red Cross was dispatched to help the family find temporary lodging.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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