5 dogs missing after July 4th backyard barbecue sparks house fire

PEORIA, Ariz. (KPHO/Gray News) – One person was injured and five dogs are missing after a fast-moving fire that authorities say was sparked by a Fourth of July holiday barbecue.

According to Rural Metro Fire Department, the fire started around 9:30 a.m. when a barbecue fire spread outside the home near 88th Avenue and Williams Road. The home is located on a county island surrounded by Peoria.

Peoria Fire-Medical crews were first on the scene as the fire quickly spread through the home. Authorities say fire hydrants are scarce in the area and extended hoses were used to bring in water.

Due to the delay in the arrival of water, additional fire crews were called to the scene and were able to bring the fire under control later in the morning.

According to the Peoria Fire and Rescue Department, the fire started because of a “malfunction” in the grill. The homeowner burned his hand trying to put out the fire as it began to spread toward the house.

He was taken to hospital for treatment.

No one else was injured, but firefighters say five dogs are missing.

In addition to Rural Metro and Peoria, firefighters from Arizona Fire & Medical Authority, Glendale, Phoenix and Sun City also responded.

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