FIRE DAMAGES CITY RESIDENCE

Fire caused extensive damage, Tuesday morning to the basement area of a one-story wood-frame residence at 700 S. Benton.

Investigators said the fire started in bedding and a mattress in a basement bedroom. Firefighters said the mattress and bedding were ignited by a child playing with matches.

There was heavy fire damage to the basement bedroom and heat and smoke damage to the rest of the basement. Moderate smoke damage occurred throughout the rest of the house, authorities said.

Authorities said there was a delay in reporting the fire because there was no telephone at the residence.

The tenant was identified as Pauline Smith. The house is owned by Claude Swain.

Firefighters were called at 8:31 a.m. and dismissed at 9:13 a.m.