Published: April 13, 2009 10:50 pm      

Four people displaced by two fires

CUMBERLAND — An Oakland family and a McCoole man were displaced by fires inside their residences Sunday but there were no injuries, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office.

In Garrett County, fire of an undetermined origin broke out at 2837 Shady Dell Road, the residence of Randy and Andrea Overstreet and their 13-year-old son.

The 3:09 p.m. fire was discovered in the basement by an occupant of the single-story residence.

The victims are being assisted by family members following immediate assistance provided by the American Red Cross.

Damages were estimated at $50,000 to the structure and $20,000 to its contents.

The origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation by Deputy Fire Marshals Ryan Chapman and John Nelson with the assistance of K-9 Charlie.

Oakland, Deer Park, Gorman, Deep Creek, Aurora and Bayard volunteer fire companies responded.

McCoole resident Louis Chiccehitto was left homeless after an accidental fire occurred at 7:18 p.m. in his two-story residence at 24707 Crooks Avenue.

The fire was discovered by a passerby, prompting response of 15 volunteer firefighters from McCoole and Keyser along with the Tri-Towns Rescue Squad.

Faulty electrical wiring in the kitchen ceiling caused the fire, according to Deputy Fire Marshal Ed Ernst, who investigated the incident.

Damages were estimated at $40,000 to the structure and $5,000 to its contents.

Firefighters were on the scene for 2 1/2 hours, according to the Allegany County 911 Joint Communications Division.

Contact Jeffrey Alderton at jlalderton@times-news.com.