Fire Causes Loss Of $70,000

The Cocke County and Cosby fire departments responded to a fire at a home on Upward Way Sunday morning. Upon arrival, a garage and two vehicles parked in the driveway were all engulfed in flames. The owner stated that 34 year old Mary Sams had been staying at the garage. A witness stated that Sams had gotten out an went running on foot down Highway 73. She was not located. Lemuel Phillips, the owner, stated that he had no idea how the fire started, but he had no insurance on either the structure nor the two vehicles. He estimated the loss at approx…$70,000. the cause of the fire is under investigation.