SANFORD — Police in Sanford are continuing their investigation into the arson fire that destroyed the single residence at 26 Montreal St. and damaged an adjacent property, and are asking those who live nearby to contact them if they have exterior video surveillance cameras.

Sanford Police Detective Chad Allen noted one video that shows two people nearby the area had been turned in and was released to the public a week ago, but said if other neighbors have cameras, police would like to have a look at their video.

Firefighters were called to the scene at 4:26 a.m. on Saturday, July 6.

“At that time of day, there’s not a lot of activity in the area,” said Allen.

Joining Sanford Police and investigators with the State Fire Marshal ‘s Office in the probe is a criminal fire investigator with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Allen said.

“We’re following leads and tips from the public,” he said. “The three agencies are working together.”

“We’re running down a lot of information,” said Sanford Police Chief Thomas Connolly. He said detectives were employing “a lot of shoe leather” as they continue their investigation. “We’re checking every bit of evidence we have,” he said.

Meanwhile at the scene, the shell of the two-story home remains, though the roof has collapsed. The adjacent two-family home at 24 Montreal St. is charred and sustained other damage, as well.

Police said the three residents of 26 Montreal St. and five occupants of 24 Montreal St. got out safely.

None of the residents or firefighters was injured.

Nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution, according to Sanford Fire Department Lt. Rick Smith.

A number of surrounding departments assisted in fighting the fire.

Anyone with information or nearby residents with exterior video cameras is asked to call Sanford Police at 324-9170 and ask for Det. Allen, or leave a message on the tip line by following the telephone prompts.

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 780-9016 or twells@journaltribune.com.