Embers from a pellet stove are believed to have caused a fire that destroyed a home on County Route 17 in Russell on Friday.

Degrasse Fire Department officials said in an online statement that they responded to a structure fire in South Russell at 10:48 a.m. Once on scene they found the back side of the house engulfed in flames and heavy smoke visible.

Despite their efforts, firefighters were unable to save the two-story home, which is a total loss, officials said. Fortunately, there were no people or animals inside the home and no one was injured.

Investigation revealed the cause of the fire to be an ember coming from the pellet stove chimney caught tall grass on fire which spread to the exterior of the house.  

Mutual aid was provided by Russell, Hermon, Edwards, Pyrites, Star Lake, Fine, and Canton fire departments.

Members of Degrasse FD Department would like to thank all responding agencies for their assistance

Fire District 6 Deputy Coordinator Gary Lutz and St. Lawrence County Fire investigators were also on scene.

St Lawrence County Highway Department employees that were in the area also assisted with traffic control.