WATERTOWN, NY — A Watertown residence was completely engulfed in flames early Saturday morning following a reported explosion, prompting a full dispatch of city firefighters and the evacuation of neighboring homes.
At precisely 1:59 a.m., all Watertown city firefighters were called to 1149 Temple St. after reports of a house fully engulfed in flames. Upon arrival, emergency crews found the property, owned by David A. Konop according to city records, ablaze.
Firefighters, who reported consistent water pressure difficulties throughout their efforts, were assisted at the scene by multiple agencies including the Watertown Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, Guilfoyle Ambulance, National Grid, and the city water department.
The Northpole Fire Department provided coverage in the city during the incident.
In response to the dangerous conditions and to ensure public safety, neighboring homes were evacuated. Authorities also closed Thompson Boulevard between S. Indiana Avenue and New Life Church to facilitate emergency operations.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Further details will be released as they become available.
Audio: ‘If the water department doesn’t do something pretty soon on Thompson Boulevard, you’re going to have a catastrophic water failure’
newzjunky@gmail.com