Fire destroys home on Maple Avenue

Photos by Shari Harris
Firefighters from several departments responded to a house fire on Maple Avenue on Wednesday, September 30.

Not much remained of the structure after a rekindle of the fire in the early morning hours of Thursday, October 1.

The Hock family lost their home to fire on Wednesday, September 30. The house and garage, located just across from Licking’s Old City Park, were a complete loss. In addition, the family dog would not exit the home and was lost in the fire, and at least two vehicles were involved in the blaze.

Jory Hock was home with three small children when he noticed the flames at the back of the garage, near where an extension cord was in use. He was able to get the children and himself safely out of the residence and to the park. His wife, Roxanna Hock, was out of town, and their other adult child was at work. Licking Pentecostal Holiness Church is graciously allowing the family to stay in their parsonage until other arrangements can be made.

Licking Fire Department Chief Bobby Hearty commented that the City’s new water lines and hydrants did help with suppressing the fire, with better pressure for their hoses. Mutual aid from surrounding departments was provided.