Update: Seven Displaced After Middletown House Fire, Investigators Release Cause

Middletown – Investigators with the Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal are investigating a fire that heavily damaged a Middletown home this morning, according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio.

Chionchio said the Volunteer Hose Company responded to the 100 block of East Lake Street shortly after 11:00 am to find flames coming from a house containing two apartments.

After responding to the scene, State fire investigators determined that fire began in the living room of the ground floor apartment.  Chionchio said an electrical extension cord powering a space heater failed and ignited a nearby couch.

Heavy fire damage was estimated at $100,000.  Four adults and three children have been displaced due to the fire. Both families are being assisted by the American Red Cross, said Chionchio.

The fire has been declared accidental, according to Chionchio.

No injuries were reported.

Breaking Report

Middletown – Firefighters from Middleton, Odessa, Townend, Port Penn, and Maryland are responding to the 100 block of E Lake Street for reports of a house fire.

Upon arrival, crews are reporting heavy fire showing from the front of the home. A large column of black smoke coming from the fire can be seen for miles away.

Crews are also reporting that power lines are down in the roadway.

New Castle County Paramedics have responded to stand by the fire scene.

Firefighters are working to bring the blaze under control.

Fire Marshals have been dispatched to the scene.

Firefighters from Smyrna are responding into Middletown to cover the city while Middletown crews are working the fire.

Command is reporting that the building has two apartments.

Families from both apartments have been displaced by the fire.

At least 4 adults and 2 children are being assisted by the Red Cross

Developing

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