American Family seeks repayment after fire spreads next door

American Fanily Insurance is suing Belleville property owner Christina Martin for a fire that damaged a home next door on Aug. 12, 2006.

According to a suit filed May 15 in St. Clair County Circuit Court, American Family Insurance paid $52,608.34 to its insured Willie Agnew, who resides at 3901 Memorial Dr.

Martin resides at 3903 Memorial Dr.

In its complaint as subrogee for Agnew, American Family claims a fire was started in Martin's garage by her minor child.

"That the fire from Defendant's residence at 3903 Memorial Drive...spread to Plaintiff's insured property located next door," the complaint states.

American Family is represented by Elaine Lechien of Belleville.