Sapulpa Family Loses Everything To Possible Lightning Fire

A Sapulpa man says a lightning strike caused his house to catch fire early Monday morning, April 17.

Firefighters say it started as a small fire in a back room, but by the time they got here the house was fully involved. The fire happened a little before 2 a.m., and we were on the scene as crews were getting the fire under control.

Debris is left behind at the home in the 9600 block of South Frankoma. Firefighters said the wind turned what was a small fire into what they said is a total loss.

Homeowner Edward Girkin said he was home with his wife and two dogs when he smelled smoke and heard a big boom. He managed to get everyone out safely, but they're looking for somewhere else to stay for now. Girkin says it's a big blow to his family. 

"Work has been slow; we don't have any money - we're trying to take care of my mother-in-law next door," he said. 

He is still reeling from the loss of his home and the items inside.

"All my dad's badges are in there from when he was a police officer, I mean, everything. Tomorrow, maybe when the sun comes up or today later, I'll come in here and maybe try to get some of it out," said Edward Girkin, Sapulpa resident.

The Red Cross was called in and will be helping the family out.

Investigators will determine the definitive cause of the fire.