A house across from Lincoln University was destroyed by a fire Friday evening.
According to fire department reports, crews were called to 801 Locust St. around 6:21 p.m.
When crews arrived, they found heavy smoke coming from the single-story structure. Eventually, fire was coming from all parts of the home.
It took crews about 30 to 40 minutes to bring the blaze under control.
As crews were fighting the fire, they were also trying to determine if anyone was still inside the home. They eventually discovered the male resident had not been in the house when the fire occurred.
Although the exact cause of the fire was undetermined, fire officials did say they believed this was an accidental fire and nothing appeared suspicious.
The fire is believed to have started in the front part of the home, possibly in the living room area.
Six companies of Jefferson City firefighters were involved in fighting the fire. Off-duty personnel were called in to man some stations along with some members of the Cole County Fire Protection District.