FELTS MILLS — The cause of a blaze that broke out late Sunday, destroying the home and garage of William H. Hickox, 15400 Hickox Road, remains unknown.

County fire investigator Timothy M. Mulvaney said the fire originated in the garage, where recyclables, tools and other items were stored.

Flames and heat funneled through a breezeway attaching the garage and house. The garage burned to the ground, and the house was gutted, Mr. Mulvaney said. The property is insured.

Mr. Hickox was home alone watching television about 10 p.m when he heard a popping noise, Mr. Mulvaney said. He looked out a window and saw the garage engulfed.

Firefighters from Felts Mills, Rutland, Tylerville, Copenhagen, town of Watertown, Black River, Adams Center, Sackets Harbor and Rodman responded to the alarm.

Another fire early Sunday at Antwerp is under investigation by the state police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. No information was available about the probe. A vacant apartment building at 62 Main St. was destroyed.