MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — A kitchen fire caused significant damage to a Martinsville home Sunday afternoon after items were accidentally left on the stove, according to Fire Chief Dan Howell.

Martinsville Fire & EMS received the call at 4:10 p.m. for a reported structure fire on Susan Drive.

Crews arrived to find flames showing from the stove and smoke coming from the kitchen area.

The fire was declared under control at 4:22 p.m.

Fire Chief Howell told rbs news now on Monday that the home was occupied at the time, but smoke detectors alerted residents, allowing them to exit safely.

One occupant sustained a minor injury but did not require transport to the hospital.

The blaze was determined to be accidental in nature, originating from items left unattended on the stove, according to Howell.

Howell said the home sustained fire damage in the kitchen and smoke damage throughout, with an estimated $71,050 in property and content losses.

Responding agencies included Martinsville Fire & EMS, the Henry County Department of Public Safety, Martinsville Electric Department, Martinsville Public Works, and Southwestern Virginia Gas Company.

The American Red Cross was offered to assist the residents, but the occupants declined, choosing instead to stay with family members.

Copyright 2025 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.

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ORIGINAL STORY — October 26

MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — Fire crews responded to a structure fire Sunday afternoon on Susan Drive in Martinsville.

Units were called to the scene around 4:15 p.m. on October 26 after smoke was seen coming from the kitchen area.

According to initial reports, Martinsville Fire & EMS arrived to find flames showing from the stove.

Henry County Public Safety also assisted at the scene.

No medical transports were reported.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.