MONTICELLO, NY — Two Monticello families were forced out of their homes because of a fire that broke out on the evening of June 29. Monticello firefighters responded to the blaze at 105 Cold Spring Rd., in the Town of Thompson. Engine 22-11 arrived on scene reporting a working structure fire in a single residence.

The residence was divided into two apartments and was housing two families, who have moved out because of the fire. Both are now staying with relatives. The first-floor apartment sustained heavy damage, and the basement apartment sustained water damage.

The fire is being investigated by Monticello Fire Department and the Sullivan County Bureau of Fire Investigators, but the blaze is considered to be accidental and related to cooking.

Monticello was assisted at the scene by Forestburgh and Hurleyville fire departments, Mobilemedic EMS and Sullivan County Sheriff’s Department. Rock Hill Fire Department was on standby in Monticello. There were no injuries; however two family pets were overcome by heavy smoke.