BUTLER TWP — Hours after the family at 140 Greenwood Drive started a fire in the fireplace Friday morning to take the chill off the house, something went awry causing the roof and attic to catch fire.

Although firefighters were able to contain the blaze in less than eight minutes from their arrival, a good portion of the attic, roof, living room and one outside wall were destroyed by the blaze.

Fugi Sisca said she first saw smoke while she was outside, hanging laundry to dry.

"We had no idea what was going on," Sisca said. "Then my husband started yelling, "Get out. The house is on fire.'"

Emergency dispatchers were called at 12:19 p.m.

Meridian Volunteer Fire Department Lt. Dave Bestwick said the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, but it does not appear suspicious. He could not immediately provide a damage estimate.

In addition to Meridian, firefighters from Greenwood Village, Mercer Road, Lyndora and South Butler assisted.

The American Red Cross arrived, and was providing assistance to the family.