Squatters may have sparked fire at vacant North Side house, officials said

SAN ANTONIO – Squatters are suspected of causing a fire at an abandoned house on the North Side.

The fire started around 2:30 a.m. Wednesday at the home off Gardina Street near West Avenue.

Crews arrived to find flames peeking over the roof from the backside of the boarded-up home. The fire spread to the side of the house and garage, but most of the damage was contained to the back.

Investigators have not confirmed the cause, but because of the chilly temperatures and lack of active utilities, they believe squatters may have started the fire.

No injuries were reported.