INVERNESS, FL (352today.com) – On Aug.  16 at 9:00 p.m., Citrus County Fire Rescue was dispatched to a reported structure fire on E. Riverbluff Ct. in Inverness.

Battalion Chief 1 arrived with Engine 5 from Hernando to find a 1,000 square foot residence with fire showing from the roof and front attic area. Firefighters quickly deployed a hoseline and cut power to the home. Crews entered through the front door and pulled ceiling materials to reach flames in the attic space.

Engine 8 from the Highlands performed a primary search, confirming all occupants were safely out. Ladder 23 from Kensington and Engine 24 from Floral City were assigned standby and search duties before being released. The fire was under control within minutes, and damage was limited to the front roofline and attic area. The last unit cleared the scene at 10:03 p.m.

The homeowner reported they had been away when a storm passed through the area and returned to find their roof on fire. Based on damage patterns and conditions at the scene, the fire is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike. No injuries were reported.

Estimated property and content loss is approximately $6,000. The home was ventilated and checked for hazards before being turned back over to the owner.