Looks to be an interior chimney. Appears fire started around a wood stove. No other details on the install. I feel sad for the family, nice looking place too. Thankfully again no one was hurt.
http://www2.tricities.com/news/2010...family-loses-home-christmas-eve-fi-ar-735516/
http://www2.tricities.com/news/2010...family-loses-home-christmas-eve-fi-ar-735516/