The Mercer Island Fire Department responded to a fire in the 9300 block of S.E. 59th St. Thursday at 12:30 p.m.

The homeowner left a candle burning which partially melted some of a countertop according to battalion chief Darrel Gordon, at the scene.

Workers at a new home under construction next door, heard the alarm and called the fire department.

The fire is still under investigation.