Five Fire Departments responded to an early morning house fire in 11000 Block of Patrick Henry Highway between Phenix and Brookneal that left a family home heavily damaged.

The fire occurred around 2 a.m. Saturday, July 25, when the residents were awaked by the sounds of their smoke detector and a family pet.

The occupants had left the residence prior to the fire department’s arrival and escaped without any major injuries.

Firefighters were on scene for approximately three and a half hours. The fire’s cause has not been determined as of press time.

Firefighters from Phenix, Red House, Charlotte Court House, Drakes branch and Brookneal responded to the scene.