Multiple family pets lost in Seneca house fire

On Saturday, February 20th at approximately 12:12 am the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office reported to 4452 Little Church Road, in the Town of Seneca for the report of a basement fire. In addition to the Sheriff’s Office, Stanley, Hall, Gorham, Seneca Castle, White Springs and West Lake Road fire departments also responded.Upon arrival firefighters and sheriff’s deputies observed smoke coming from the single family residence. Upon investigation a fire was discovered in the basement. The fire was restricted to the basement and first floor bathroom. The home owners were able to get out of the home. However, the family lost several pets in the blaze. Gorham-Stanley-Hall Ambulance assisted at the scene. The Red Cross was contacted and also responded to the scene to assist the home owners. The home owners, Joseph and Suzette Yankanich, 58 and 54, were out of the home when police and fire crews arrived on the scene. The fire is under investigation and the cause has yet to be determined. The Ontario County Fire Coordinator, who was also on the scene, is now leading the investigation.