Video: 'News report about a fire in Ringo Starr's home 11/28/79'

(Wednesday, November 28, 1979) — Flames engulfed the rented home of Ringo Starr today, forcing the former Beatles’ drummer and several friends to flee the Woodrow Wilson Drive residence in the Hollywood Hills.

No injuries were reported, but damage was estimated at $135,000. Starr lost several of his Beatles keepsakes in the fire.

Six companies of firemen extinguished the flames in about half an hour. Officials said the blaze was started by sparks from a fireplace not equipped with a spark arrester.

Flames were confined to the second floor and attic, but there was considerable water damage to the lower floor.