Some residents move back into home after weekend fire in Highland

A fire in a Highland duplex put at least one family temporarily out of their home this weekend.

The Highland Fire Department was summoned to 58 Malan Court in Highland at approximately 7:10 p.m. Friday. The blaze was quickly upgraded to a second-alarm fire.

Highland Police Chief Carole Presson, who serves as director of public safety, said all the occupants were evacuated safely without injuries.

The home suffered extensive damage to the garage and attic space, as well as smoke and heat damage. However, city staff confirmed Monday that at least some of the resident have been able to get back into the house.

Assistance for the residents is being arranged through the American Red Cross with the help of the Highland Fire Department chaplain, Presson said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, but no foul play is suspected, Presson said.

Members of neighboring fire protection agencies assisted Highland Fire, which allowed them to extinguish the fire without damage to the next home.

At least five volunteer departments joined in the effort, and City Manager Chris Conrad said the city was grateful for their help.

“We appreciate those responses from other communities,” he said.

Presson said anyone interested in donating to help the families should contact the American Red Cross or Mosaic Church Pastor Matt Emery.

This story was originally published December 4, 2023 at 11:52 AM.