At 1:12 pm Tuesday the Liberal Fire Department was dispatched to 922 N. Pershing for a reported garage fire.  Law enforcement units on scene advised that the garage was fully engulfed and spreading to the attached residence and also to a vehicle parked in the driveway.

Upon arrival firefighters encountered heavy fire in the garage of a single-family residence.  A defensive attack with multiple handlines was initiated.  Once the fire was sufficiently darkened down entrance into the attached residence was made to check for fire extension beyond the garage.  The fire was declared under control at 1:34 pm

At the time of the fire the home was occupied by an adult male who was able to escape.  He was evaluated on scene by Seward County EMS but declined transport.

The fire is believed to be accidental in nature having originated in the garage.  The garage was fully burned out and the attached residence suffered extensive smoke and heat damage.  Also destroyed in the garage were two vehicles and a motorcycle.  After lengthy overhaul and investigation all units cleared the scene at 4:01 pm.

Liberal Fire responded with a total of 10 personnel, two engines, and one utility vehicle.  Also assisting at the scene were the Liberal Police Department, Seward County EMS, Southern Pioneer Electric, Black Hills Energy, Liberal Water Department & American Red Cross.