Groton — The local and state fire marshal’s offices are investigating the cause of a fire Tuesday that gutted a home at 168 Indian Field Road. 

Two dogs perished in the fire, first reported at about 4 p.m. when witnesses said they heard what sounded like an explosion. Onlookers saw flames shooting from the rear of the building. 

Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department Chief Joe Winski said firefighters arrived to find much of the home, including an addition at the rear, in flames. Occupants of the home were already outside, he said. 

No injuries were reported. Winski said much of the interior of the home was lost in the blaze. 

Neighbor Pattie Selander said she heard a “huge bang” and looked to see the rear of the home in flames. 

The American Red Cross is helping a family of two, a man and his son, with emergency food and clothing needs. The family was able to make other housing arrangements, according to the Red Cross. 

Rich James, a former volunteer firefighter, was driving on Route 1 when he spotted the smoke and flames from the intersection of Route 117. He said he drove to the home and joined a Groton police officer in trying to break a front window to get to a dog inside. He said they were driven back by the ferocity of the fire. 

Tiffany Salen said she saw the flames from Route 117 and “my heart sank,” with thoughts of her own home nearby. 

Winski said Poquonnock Bridge firefighters were joined by mutual aid departments from City of Groton, Old Mystic, Naval Submarine Base, Mystic and New London. 

Records show the one-story ranch is owned by Theodore Ackley III. 

The investigation into the cause is under investigation by the Poquonnock Bridge Fire Marshal and state fire marshal’s office. 

g.smith@theday.com