Keystone woman, dogs, die in fire

A 54-year-old woman and at least two of her dogs were killed in a Keystone Heights fire Tuesday, authorities said.

The woman, whose identity is not being released until it is confirmed by the Medical Examiner’s Office, was found in the living room of the wood frame house in the 7900 block of Florida 100, said detective Robby Stephens of the State Fire Marshals Office. Neighbors told firefighters the woman lived alone and was home when the fire was reported about 3 p.m., Stephens said.

The fire that is believed to have started in the garage, spread to the 2,400 square-foot home, several vehicles, a boat and trees. Stephens estimated damage at $250,000. Two other dogs were found outside and one is still missing, though not believed to be in the house.

Initially, firefighters were not able to get into the structure because of a roof collapse, according to information from Clay County Fire Rescue. The woman and animals were found about three hours later during a search, Stephens said.

He said the cause of the fire is not suspicious.

Firefighters from Clay, Bradford and Putnam counties responded to the fire.

Dana Treen