11 people, multiple pets escape house fire near Gonzaga; arson investigation underway

An early-morning house fire in north Spokane that displaced 11 people is being investigated as arson.

At about 3 a.m. Thursday, multiple crews with the Spokane Fire Department were called to 119 E. Sinto Ave. near Gonzaga University, where they saw heavy smoke and flames coming from the second floor of a single-family residence, firefighters said in a news release.

Michele Anderson, communications manager for Spokane police and fire, said six adults, five children and multiple pets were able to escape the home uninjured. The American Red Cross is assisting with temporary housing.

Family members told KHQ they believe the fire was started in an upstairs bedroom by one of the occupants, who suffers from mental illness.

Fire investigators confirmed the cause is likely arson.