Firefighters responded to a house fire Sunday afternoon in the Pennville community after a 911 call reported flames at 99 Railroad Circle shortly before 4 p.m. Crews arrived quickly and were able to bring the fire under control, but the home sustained significant damage.

Early reports suggest the fire may have been started by a cat knocking over a lit candle, though the investigation is still ongoing. While no residents were injured, the blaze tragically claimed the lives of four dogs and one cat.

Multiple emergency agencies assisted at the scene, including the Summerville, Trion, Teloga, and Hays State Prison Fire Departments, along with Atrium Health Floyd EMS and the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office. Their coordinated efforts helped prevent the fire from spreading further.

The American Red Cross was called in to assist the displaced family as they recover from the loss of their home and pets.