Public Communications serves as a communications link between the city of Columbia’s municipal government and the citizens. The Public Communications Office coordinates several programs that are designed to link citizens with their city government.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Captain Eric Hartman - (573) 874-7644

Oven fire causes minor damage to central Columbia home

COLUMBIA, MO (July 1, 2008) - Columbia firefighters were called at 7:18 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, to 301 West Parkway Dr. for a report of a structure fire.

Firefighters arrived and observed light smoke coming from the home. Fire crews entered the home, where they discovered flames inside the oven, originating from a sheet of cookies. The crews attempted to open the oven and discovered the door was locked with the appliance in "self-clean" mode. Fire Fighters then used tools to force entry into the oven and extinguish the flames. There was extensive damage to the stove and smoke damage throughout the home. There were no injuries and damage is estimated at $1,000. The home is owned by Lou and Rachel Mazzocco.

Investigators from the Columbia Fire Department were on-scene and at this time the cause remains under investigation pending further examination of the stove.

Residents are reminded to remain attentive while performing any type of cooking inside their home and never leave cooking unattended.

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