Update: Feds Join Delaware City House Fire Investigation

The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating this morning’s fire in Delaware City, Delaware that heavily damaged a house and critically injured two occupants, according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio.

Chionchio said the blaze, reported shortly after 2:00 am, occurred in the 100 block of Clinton Street. The Delaware City Fire Company arrived on the scene with flames engulfing the two-story dwelling.

Firefighters entered the burning structure and rescued a 19-year-old male. The victim was critically injured and transported to the Christiana Hospital with life threatening injuries. A 69-year-old female sustained smoke inhalation and was in stable condition at the same hospital.

State fire investigators are on scene and are currently searching for the fire’s origin and cause. New Castle County Police, Delaware City Police, and special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are assisting in the investigation.

New Castle County Paramedics spokeswoman Corporal Yvonne Russell said that both patients suffered from smoke inhalation.

Heavy fire damage was estimated at $200,000. The American Red Cross responded to the scene to provide emergency assistance to three adults that have been displaced.

This investigation continues.

An earlier report from the NCC Paramedics indicated that the male was 30-years-old.

Breaking Report

Delaware City – At approximately 2:12 Wednesday morning firefighters from the Delaware City Fire Company along with mutual aid from surrounding companies responded to the100 block of Clinton Street for reports of a house fire.

While en route crews learned that everyone was out of the home.

Upon arrival, crews reported fire showing from the home and began their attack.

As crews assessed the scene they reported that the two-story home’s enclosed porch was well involved, with fire extending to both floors of the home. Crews also reported that the powerlines were down and requested assistance from Delmarva Power to shut off the power.

As crews made their way into the home Command reported that they were getting reports that someone may be in the basement. It’s unclear if anyone was found inside the home.

One person was transported to the hospital by a Delaware City ambulance. We believe this was related to the fire scene, however, that has not been confirmed at this point.

Red Cross was contacted to assist three adults displaced by the fire.

This is a breaking report. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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First State Update's Delaware editorial team covers New Castle County, Kent County and Sussex County breaking news, political news, and general news stories. We bring the reader the latest news from the Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Rehoboth Beach and all point in between. If you have news to share, email us at [email protected].

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