An early-morning house fire on Pendergast Road near Dove Creek sent two people to hospital Monday for observation, as firefighters battled the blaze that ripped through a home. Kurt MacDonald, Courtenay deputy fire chief said the fire — which began around 2:30 a.m. — caused significant damage to the home, which was occupied at the time. "There was a lot of damage, which is making the investigation quite difficult," he said, and added it is too early to determine a cause until they speak with the homeowners. He noted firefighters were able to save a detached garage from much damage along with an outbuilding on the property.MacDonald added the two people who were taken to hospital were released later in the morning, but have been unable to contact them as of Monday. photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com