Fire destroys vacant house, arson suspected

SEMINOLE - A fire that destroyed a vacant house in Seminole early this morning may be arson, authorities said.

The 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom house at 10411 121st Ave., burned about 5 a.m. Owned by Marion Whalen, 83, of St. Petersburg, the house had been empty since November, according to deputies.

Seminole Fire Rescue was on scene at 4:48 a.m. and had the fire under control about 15 minutes later, according to spokeswoman Alison Shanabrook. Investigators estimate the single-story concrete block house was worth about $140,000.

The Seminole fire marshal believes the fire was arson, but wasn't able to determine an exact cause because the house was so badly burned, according to Shanabrook.

Anyone with information is asked to call sheriff's Detective Kristine Gilmore at (727) 582-6200. Callers who want to remain anonymous can call 1-800-873-TIPS.

Photo courtesy of Seminole Fire Rescue