House Fire Displaces Residents

A fire swept through a two-story residence Tuesday, causing an estimated $65,000 in damage and displacing two homeowners, fire officials said.

Norma and Wayne Downey, who have lived in the 2800 block of Velarde Drive since their home was built in 1969, will probably be in temporary quarters for three months.

The fire caused about $50,000 in damage to the Downeys’ $250,000 home and destroyed about $15,000 in contents, said Joe Luna, spokesman for the Ventura County Fire Department. No one was injured.

Fire investigators have not yet determined how or where the fire began, Luna said.

Firefighters were on the scene about 11:45 a.m. and extinguished the blaze before 12:30 p.m., officials said. Most of the smoke and water damage occurred to the front of house, including its bedrooms and attic, Luna said.

“It was minimal damage but still enough to cause them to be displaced,” Luna said. “Fortunately they saw the fire, and there was quick work done by 911. They got out safely, and that’s the main concern.”

Norma Downey, 77, smelled smoke about 11:30 a.m., and then discovered it coming from the roof.

Her husband tried battling the flames with a garden hose until firefighters arrived.

The Red Cross is housing the Downeys in a Thousand Oaks hotel for a couple of days, said Chris Grigg, spokeswoman for the American Red Cross of Ventura County. After that, the couple are arranging for a place to stay while repairs are done.