A fire broke out in a home at 2510 E. 4th St. this afternoon, according to a news release from the Chattanooga Fire Department.
The department received the alarm about 3:15 p.m. and responded to the scene with four fire companies.
Capt. Joey Smith with Engine 5 found no one at the residence, so the firefighters forced their way inside and found the fire in the kitchen. The flames were beginning to spread up the walls and into a stairwell, but the firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze before it could spread any further.
No injuries were reported and the fire has been ruled accidental. The fire was started by cooking oil left unattended on the stove.
Captain Smith estimated the dollar loss at $15,000 to $20,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.