Jerome, Idaho (KMVT-TV) Investigators with the Jerome Fire Department are saying it appears Sunday evening’s house fire was caused by a cigarette butt being tossed into a dried plant near the back deck of the home. Jerome City Deputy Fire Chief Jack Krill said that the fire more than likely burned for about 10 minutes before the fire department was notified at about 6:30 pm. Most of the fire at 219 Mountain View Drive was contained in the attic area, so it’s possible at least some of the contents might be salvageable. The home, on the other hand, wasn’t so lucky. The structure had a metal roof, which turns in to an oven when fire is trapped inside, Krill said. The home was valued at $183,000 and it’s expected it will be considered a total loss. The homeowner reportedly had just left, leaving two teenage boys at the residence. There were no injuries reported. Krill said it was a particularly tough fire to fight due to the temperatures reaching 90 degrees. The rural fire department responded with mutual aid and their assistance was greatly appreciated, Krill said. Photos in the image gallery courtesy of Jack Krill/Jerome Fire Department.

Watch a video from the Jerome Fire Department (Courtesy of Asst. Fire chief Jack Krill) CLICK HERE