PICACHO, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
A fire south of Eloy leaves two families homeless. Investigators believe it started with a space heater. But, the families are wondering why a fire department just a few miles away didn't respond.
The property was on "no mans land" meaning they have no fire coverage. But, it was Avra Valley Fire District who came from 30 miles away when there was a fire station just three miles away.
The fire ripped through the main home, which had been there for 60 years. It also destroyed a 5th wheel trailer and a car.
All occupants escaped unharmed. But, they had to watch the fire grow bigger while waiting for a fire department to respond.
Firefighters with Eloy Fire Department said they never got a fire call. Only a request for an ambulance for smoke inhalation. They say the property was out of their boundaries, which are determined based on tax dollars.
The home was also 8-miles out of Avra Valley Fire District's jurisdiction. It's unclear who will have to foot the bill for their response.
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