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ANTES FORT — Two Lycoming Regional police officers worked together early Sunday morning to locate the source of lingering smoke on Route 44 that turned out to be coming from a smoldering fire inside a garage, according to Lycoming Regional Police Chief Christopher Kriner.

Patrolman Jared Mahonsky, who was just getting off duty, first discovered the heavy haze over the two-lane state road about 3:10 a.m. He was soon joined by Patrolman Kenneth Bowers, who began “methodically checking” the area for what had now become heavy dark smoke drifting across the road, Kriner said.

“His persistence paid off when he discovered smoke coming from a garage at a residence at 1309 Route 44 South in Nippenose Township,” Kriner said, adding that Bowers immediately alerted the county’s 911 dispatch center to the fire and had all occupants evacuated from the home, about 15 feet way. Bowers also made sure all vehicles were moved away from the garage, Kriner said. “Due to extreme heat – evidenced by melting and hot-to-the-touch doors, the officer avoided opening the garage, thereby preventing additional oxygen from intensifying the fire,” Kriner explained.

Antes Fort fire investigators determined that the fire was caused by hot ashes or coals that had been dumped in a plastic trash can inside the garage. The homeowner’s lawn tractor was destroyed.

“This incident is a clear example of the vigilance and commitment our officers bring to the communities we serve in the region every day. Their actions reflect the highest standards of public service. We are proud of their quick thinking and action,” Kriner said.