Cat rescued from burning basement

Spokane Valley firefighters doused a basement fire today, and rescued the family cat while they were at it.

Damage to the home at 6918 E. 6th Ave. was estimated at $4,000. Firefighters said the fire was confined to the basement and investigators were still trying to determine how it ignited.

The homeowner called 9-1-1 after smelling smoke at the rear of the home and then discovering thick black smoke billowing from the basement, according to the Spokane Valley Fire Department.

No injuries were reported.