Ledyard — An early morning fire destroyed a home at 5 Warbler Way.

Firefighters arrived at the scene of the fire, which first was reported at 6:52 a.m. Friday, to find heavy flames in the two-bay attached garage and a portion of the home, Gales Ferry Fire Chief Anthony Saccone said.

The homeowner, who was outside of the home and with neighbors when firefighters arrived, was taken by ambulance to an area hospital for treatment of minor smoke inhalation, Saccone said. No other injuries were reported.

The fire spread quickly, fueled by whipping winds as fire crews from multiple area fire departments shuttled water in tankers to the scene. The area is not serviced by fire hydrants. Saccone said more departments also were called in for manpower, which is sometimes lacking at volunteer departments during regular work hours.

The garage had burned and collapsed by the time the fire was under control, and the vehicle inside was destroyed.  

Multiple firefighters remained at the scene until about 12:30 p.m., overhauling the structure. Saccone said the Red Cross would be contacted to ensure residents had a place to stay. Town property records show the home is owned by Terry and Stephane Browder.

Fire departments that were called to the scene included Gales Ferry, Ledyard, Center Groton, Preston City, North Stonington, Mohegan Tribal, Poquonnock Bridge, Submarine Base, Griswold, City of Norwich and New London. 

The cause of the fire was under investigation by the town's fire marshal.