In brief: Avista substations targeted for copper

Authorities say more than a half-mile of copper wire was stolen recently from an Avista Utilities substation.

Avista employees told the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office the wire was stolen from the Dahl Road substation sometime between Oct. 16 and Oct. 24. Another 450 to 500 feet of wire was pilfered from the Little Spokane substation during the same time frame.

Avista estimates the scrap value of the stolen copper at about $595, but said it would cost $12,000 to replace and repair.

Avista is offering a cash reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction for those responsible for the thefts. Anyone with information should call Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.

North Spokane home catches fire Thursday

A fire in a north Spokane home Thursday morning forced four residents to evacuate.

Residents of the home on the 700 block of East Illinois Avenue were able to escape without any injuries.

Firefighters quickly put out the fire. Fire damage was contained to a small area, but smoke damage was moderate, a Spokane Fire Department news release said.

Homeowner Mike Cornelius said they plugged in a heater, smelled smoke and got out with as many belongings as they could carry.