TULSA, Okla. — It’s been six months since a home in south Tulsa burned to the ground, and investigators are still trying to piece together what happened.
Crews spent hours battling the blaze on a frigid evening last February. Firefighters told FOX23 that they could see the flames from the station, which was about a quarter of a mile away.
Neighbors stood outside as crews fought to put out the fire.
“The whole house was consumed. It started in the back, and the flames were up way too high. It was shooting, twirling up when I saw it,” said Helen, a neighbor.
Once the fire was out, investigators began to figure out how the fire started. Six months later, investigators tell FOX23 that the fire started in the attic, but not what prompted the blaze.
The house was abandoned at the time of the fire. It was recently sold, but had not yet closed. The home was torn down in June, bringing relief to neighbors who said the damaged home was dangerous.
FOX23 reached out to the buyer, who said he’s not ready to do an interview. He also said he had nothing to do with the fire and he’s cooperating with investigators.
However, a former resident of the home was arrested in June.
42-year-old Andrew Joel Weinstock was arrested by firefighters on Father’s Day. Weinstock was arrested on un-related warrants out of Creek County, including stalking, violating a protective order, and feloniously pointing a firearm.
Weinstock was handed additional charges after his arrest after allegedly damaging a sprinkler head while trying to get a drink of water. None of these charges are connected to the February fire.
FOX23 spoke with a neighbor who said Weinstock was renting the home before the fire.
Investigators continue to examine a photograph that could lead to a break in the case. If you have any information about this fire, call 918-596-COPS. You can remain anonymous.