A Monson family lost a pet and their home in a fire Wednesday afternoon.
Monson Fire Chief Laurent McDonald said the fire started in the basement at 14 Highland Avenue just before 2:30 p.m.
Chief McDonald told 22News the homeowner likely started the fire in a basement wall while doing some plumbing work.
"When the fire did break out, it caused heavy damage to the basement," said Chief Laurent. "There's an open stairwell up onto the first floor, so the heavy fire and smoke damage extended to all levels of the house. So the house is going to need some extensive work."
Chief McDonald said everyone got out safely, but they'll have to find someplace else to live for a while.
Two of their three pets got out, but their Bassett Hound died in the fire.