Four Transported to Hospital After Morning Fire

10/17/2013 – At 9:30 a.m. Thursday morning, Parkersburg firefighters responded to a working fire at 1047 Laird Ave. Dispatchers advised responding crews that four occupants were still in the house.

Engine Company 3, from Liberty Street, reported heavy smoke showing with the front of the house well involved in flames. As firefighters arrived, the occupants were jumping from the second story. Three adults and a toddler were transported by ambulance to Camden Clark Medical Center. Their injuries were related to smoke inhalation, moderate burns and fall related sprains and abrasions.

The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes. Damages are estimated at $35,000.

A total of 11 people, four adults and seven children, resided at the home. Six of the children were at school when the fire broke out.

No working smoke detectors were found in the home.

“Had this fire occurred at night time, we would likely be facing a much graver outcome,” said Fire Chief Eric Taylor.

Fire investigators remained on the scene well into the afternoon. It was determined that the fire started in the front living room. With the extent of damage, the official cause remains listed as undetermined.

The family is being assisted by the American Red Cross and the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church.