Emergency crews arrived to the sound of ammunition going off at a two-family home on Barnes Street in Bristol as fire gutted the house late Wednesday afternoon, according to the fire department.
According to Deputy Fire Chief Mark Martin, flames broke out around 4 p.m., sending smoke into the air that was visible from the fire station down the road.
Firefighters arrived to hear what sounded like ammunition exploding in the house. They kept their distance until the sound died down a few minutes later, then doused the home with water, according to Martin.
Flames were heaviest on the first floor but spread to a second-floor porch and into some of the walls, Martin said. The fire is under control but it's not yet clear if the house is still inhabitable.
Neighbors said they saw flames shooting up from the home, adding that the property owners live on the first floor and Polish renter occupies the second.
No one was home at the time and no injuries were reported. Martin said he believes three residents have been affected and will need to find another place to stay tonight.
Firefighters are still putting out hot spots as of 5 p.m.
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Crews are investigating to determine the cause of the blaze.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
