SUN CITY, AZ (CBS5) -
A Sun City West home went up in flames after it took a hit from lightning sparked by overnight storms.
The homeowners were out of town when the lightning struck around 11:15 p.m. Wednesday, neighbors said.
"We just heard a large bang and then saw a flash of light," said neighbor Larry Ott.
The fire lit up the neighborhood near North 136th and West Whitewood drives.
Residents said they smelled smoke but couldn't immediately pinpoint the source, fire officials said.
About an hour later, the location became quite apparent when flames leaped into the air.
Neighbor Brad Jarvey took pictures of the house as it burned down.
"Obviously, the fire started somewhere along the way, but nobody knew where the smoke was coming from," said Jarvey. "Finally, somebody over on the next golf hole had seen flames and called the fire department."
The home was a total loss. Nobody was injured.
CBS5 news has learned that the homeowners, Jan and Fran Strock, were out of town on vacation visiting friends in Canada.
They just got the news Thursday morning that their home had been hit by lightning.
"They've got to be just devastated," said neighbor Janice Johnson. "I don't know how they will work it all out. I feel for the family. How unfortunate it is. You never know what can happen to you in this world."
CBS5 news reporter Jason Barry will have a complete report on CBS 5 News at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Stay with cbs5az.com and CBS 5 News for updates on this developing story.
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Sun CIty West house fire
