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© St. Petersburg Times, published December 24, 2001
TAMPA -- A house fire Sunday afternoon caused $20,000 in damage, but firefighters were able to salvage many of the family's wrapped Christmas presents, Tampa Fire Rescue said. No one was injured.
The fire broke out about 12:30 p.m. at 6809 N Boulevard. Homeowner Richard Carter, his girlfriend and an 11-year-old boy were at home when flames were seen spreading from the rear of the residence to the garage apartment behind the house. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control in about 15 minutes, preventing major damage to the apartment.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. The American Red Cross is helping the family find emergency shelter.