Fire takes heavy toll near Walhalla

Fire broke out in a home north of Walhalla this morning, but the two people who live there were not home. According to Chief Jeff Heaton of the Picket Post-Camp Oak Volunteer Fire Department, preliminary determinations indicate heavy damage to “40 to 60%” at 420 Bethel Church Road. Heaton says for the multiple fire stations responding the heat and humidity presented the toughest problems in bringing the fire to a halt. The cause of the fire is being investigated.