Roanoke Rapids Fire Department Battalion Chief Kevin Hawkins said the call to 203 Madison Street was received just after 9:45 p.m. and 20 firefighters remained on the scene until just before midnight.

Hawkins said firefighters observed heavy smoke coming from the mill house and flames coming from a bottom window.

No one was home at the time of the blaze and firefighters found few furnishings, only mattresses and clothing. A Bible on a shelf in the room of the point of origin was the only item that was not destroyed.

Fire damage was contained to one room downstairs and the rest of the house sustained significant smoke damage, Hawkins said.

Firefighters did exterior and interior attacks and conducted a search to make sure the house was clear.

It appeared, Hawkins said, the fire had been burning before anyone in the neighborhood noticed it.

Roanoke Rapids Police Department Deputy Chief Andy Jackson said it appeared the point of origin was in a middle downstairs room. “The house received substantial damage.”

The cause of the fire is deemed suspicious and the police department and fire department are jointly investigating, Hawkins and Jackson confirmed.

Hawkins said assistance from the police department was crucial. “It was a good job done by the fire department and we appreciate the help of Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad, the police department and Halifax EMS.”