Smokey fire quickly put out, cause unknown

Conklin Drive was the site of a fiery scene the evening of July 20, when a vacant home in the 700 block caught fire. A neighbor reported the fire. Authorities arrived at 6:21 p.m., to find smoke pouring out the home, but no flames could be seen. The fire was contained mainly to the lower level and was doused in less than 20 minutes. Oxford firefighters assisted the Orion Fire Department by bringing a tanker to the location, which was otherwise out of reach from a hydrant. The fire caused no injuries. Orion Fire Chief Jeff Key requested the county investigate the cause. As of press time, the investigation continues.