Residents treated for minor injuries after house fire

Dog found deceased inside the home

Michele Anderson, Public Safety Communications Manager

Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at 9:59 a.m.

Last night at approximately 9:30 p.m., the Spokane Fire Department (SFD) was called to the 1600 block of E. Ostrander Ave. for a reported structure fire with possible trapped occupants inside.

First arriving units reported heavy smoke from a 1 ½ story residential building in the Hillyard neighborhood. Crews made a rapid entry to search the building and attack the fire. Two of the home's six residents had been present at the onset of the fire, but were able to evacuate the building without fire personnel assistance. One tenant did have to use a first floor window because of heavy smoke conditions. Firefighters did locate a dog inside the structure, however, it was found to be deceased. The fire was brought under control approximately 30 minutes after SFD arrival.

Three residents were treated by SFD and AMR personnel and released on scene with minor injuries. One firefighter received a minor injury when he stepped on a nail, but did not receive any treatment at the scene.

Fire crews stayed at the residence throughout the night to ensure the fire remained out and to begin an in-depth investigation into the cause of the fire. The home received significant fire damage to the basement and first floor and smoke damage throughout.

The American Red Cross responded to the incident to assist the six residents with shelter as the damage to the home was too significant to reoccupy.