Storage unit fire claims a Corvette, other belongings

by REBEKAH POTTER (rpotter@reviewonline.com)
The Review Online

LIVERPOOL TOWNSHIP, OHIO — Several storage units at Early Bird Storage on Campground Road were damaged Monday in a fire.

Early Bird Storage owner Jerry Early, whose home is next to the units, said a neighbor noticed the fire first. Early called to report the fire at about 5:45 p.m.

“It was boiling out the doors by the time I got out there,” Early said.

Firefighters were on the scene by 6 p.m., and found a storage unit containing a 1986 Corvette fulling engulfed. Flames were coming out of the roof above that unit and a neighboring unit.

Firefighters had to break through the doors of the units. Water and foam were used to contain and extinguish the fire, which was under control by 6:19 p.m. Three storage units in the building were damaged by fire, and others sustained smoke and water damage.

About 15 firefighters were on the scene from LaCroft, Dixonville and Glenmoor volunteer fire stations. The Calcutta station covered St. Clair and Liverpool townships as back-up.

Liverpool Township Fire Chief Mike Bahen said though the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the Corvette in the unit where the fire first broke out is suspected as a possible cause.

Early said he has insurance on the storage building, and the renters of the units were required to have renter’s insurance for the contents. He contacted the owners of the stored property, some of whom came to the scene of the fire Monday evening.


Section: News Posted: 10/23/2007