UPDATE: No Cause Yet on Flynn Road Fire

A single-story ranch in West Peabody was badly damaged by a fire that broke out inside the home last night around 1:30 a.m.

Fire Inspector Chris Dowling said this morning that the investigation was still ongoing and a likely cause was not available yet, although the fire appeared to have started in the attic. Dowling said he hadn't spoken to the homeowner yet, who lives in Danvers. 

Building Commissioner Keving Goggin said this morning that the home at 15 Flynn Rd. was "pretty well gutted" by the fire and boarded up for now until it would likely be torn down. He said he spoke with the homeowner Michael Gangi, who was going to be taking a look himself before contacting his insurance company.

Firefighters arrived at the scene last night to find heavy smoke coming from the rear of the home. Dowling said a passerby had called 911 after seeing flames shooting from the roof.

The flames quickly spread through the roof after fire crews arrived, leading to a partial collapse of the roof. Crews then went on the defensive, fighting the flames from outside the home.

The majority of the fire was knocked down by about 2 a.m. at which time firefighters returned inside. They said the home was vacant and appeared to be under construction.

No injuries were reported. Two engines from Lynn and an engine from Salem were called in to provide station coverage.

Dowling said firefighters at the scene spotted the building permit in the window and found tools and building materials inside.

 and sold on Aug. 10.

Thanks to Mike Moura (NEFirebuff on Twitter) for the photo.