Fire caused extensive damage to a small house near 17th and Penn Streets Tuesday morning. Fortunately there was no one at home at the time.

Batallion Fire Chief Bob Bangerter of the St Joseph Fire Department says the fire caused damage throughout the structure.

“It extended from the basement to the attic, so there was heat and fire damage throughout most of it,” Bangerter said.

“The neighbors reported a loud boom,” Chief Bangerter said in an interview at the scene. “It had been reported there was fire in the back of the house, but when we got here, there was heavy smoke. The only fire showing was in the center of the structure. The guys got in there and knocked it down pretty quick.”

Scott Plowman lives across the street. Plowman says he heard an explosion at about 8:15 a.m. and saw flames shooting out the south side of the structure.

“It only took a few moments before it became fully involved,” Plowman said. “We were a little concerned about a neighbor there. We were a little concerned because she works evenings. Fortunately she wasn’t home today.

The cause of the fire at 1117 S. 17th Street remains under investigation. There were no injuries.