Joplin firefighters battle Saturday residential fire

Joplin firefighters battled a blaze just before noon Saturday at a residence at 1919 E. 28th in Joplin.

Residents said the fire began when gasoline fumes possibly came into contact with the fire from a gas water heater in the home’s garage.

An elderly woman and a man who live at the residence were not injured.

The residents said a family cat suffered serious injuries due to smoke inhalation.

Fire, EMT and Joplin Police units were at the scene for approximately two hours.

The Joplin Fire Department is investigating the cause of the fire.