PHOTO: Fire-stricken home ruled a total loss

Authorities have declared a house at 219 E. Seventh Ave. in Mitchell a total loss after fire ravaged a portion of the home Monday afternoon. Investigators looked through the inside of the house Tuesday, said Detective Lt. Don Everson, of the Mitchell Police Division. They determined the fire was accidental and confirmed it started in the area of a closet. Everson said the division will not release names of the victims, but he said a 28-year-old woman and her family were living in the house. (Anna Jauhola/Republic)