On 4/7 at 1717 hrs TFR units responded to a house fire at 4906 Wishart Blvd in the Wellswood area of Central Tampa. On scene within a few minutes fire crews reported flames coming from the windows of the single story house. The fire was under control in about 20 minutes, no injuries were reported.

Investigators with the Tampa Fire Marshals Office determined that homeowner John Gresser, 65 years old, was outside the house with his dog. When he went inside he saw smoke coming from the back bedroom. He and the dog exited safely. It appears that improperly discarded smoking material started the fire.

The house was moderately damaged with losses estimated to be about 70,000 dollars.

TFR responded to this one alarm fire with 4 fire engines, 1 ladder truck, 2 rescue cars and a couple chief officers. There were about 26 responders on scene from fire stations in Seminole Heights, Hilldale, Sulphur Springs and West Tampa.