An early morning blaze ripped through a Lithonia home today, sending a family of three and their pets scrambling to safety. The fire, which erupted on the 2100 block of Lown Farm Lane at approximately 5:30 a.m., was battled by DeKalb County firefighters. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the flames were so severe that they not only gutted the residence but also managed to damage neighboring properties on either side.

Resident Tamia Harris, jolted awake by what she described as a "loud boom," narrowly escaped with her family. "Mother then ran into her room and said the house was on fire," Harris shared in an interview with FOX 5 Atlanta. Seizing their two dogs, the three adults were able to get outside, reportedly hearing more explosions moments after their escape. Miraculously, no injuries have been sustained by the household.

Atlanta News First confirms the residence sustained heavy damages. The local fire department's arrival led to the discovery of the house being devoured by "heavy flames." In total, four adults and two dogs have been left without a home, now counting on the support of the Red Cross.

The family lost nearly everything, but amidst the charred ruins, firefighters successfully salvaged a photograph. It was Harris' brother in Marine uniform, a small solace in the face of such a devastating loss. "It was a gesture that made her smile despite losing her home," Harris affirmed to FOX 5 Atlanta. While the exact cause of the inferno is still to be determined, investigations are actively underway to uncover how this tragedy erupted.