A FIERCE fire ripped through a home at Thornton overnight as firefighters worked for hours to extinguish the blaze.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews received an emergency triple zero call for help and rushed to the scene just before midnight on Thursday.
Multiple firefighting crews were tasked to the Woolley Close home after reports the house was well alight and flames were visible from the outside.
Firefighters arrived to find the single-level dwelling engulfed in flames and the fire extended into the roof.
Firefighters worked to gain access to the property but were forced to retreat due to the size of the blaze and the risk of the roof collapsing.
Crews managed to get the fire under control and it was knocked down by about 3am on Friday, October 25.
An "overnight fire duty" team was installed to monitor hotspots or flare-ups.
Port Stephens Hunter police set up a crime scene and were backed by FRNSW investigators at the property on Friday morning.
The Newcastle Herald understands a man and dog lived at the property but no one was reported injured.
The house was destroyed.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the blaze and have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 as inquiries continue.
