A late morning fire heavily damaged a White River Township home in the 5100 block of Smith Valley Road earlier today.  Construction workers working across the street on a sewer line noticed smoke coming from the home's vents and called 911.  Firefighters from the White River Township Fire Department arrived moments later to find a single-story house with moderate smoke coming from the eaves.  No one appeared home at the time so firefighters made entry through the front door to find the fire just inside and toward the kitchen.  A quick search of the residence confirmed that it was unoccupied.  The fire was quickly brought under control but not before causing significant smoke, water, and heat damage throughout the home.  The homeowners were located a short time later with the help of some neighbors.  They are staying with friends and family until the structure can be repaired.  The cause of the fire was an electrical short in a light switch that had been smoldering for some time.  A damage estimate was not available at press time.
 

              
(Click on a thumbnail to enlarge photo)