Just before 2:00, Thursday morning firefighters from across New Castle County responded to the 100 block of Atlantic Avenue in the Richardson Park neighborhood in Wilmington.
First arriving crews reported fire showing from the home and wires down in the roadway. As crews began their attack on the fire they received a report that victims were possibly trapped on the second floor.
Firefighters entered the home and began a search while simultaneously working to knock the fire down.
Moments later, Five Points Command requested an ambulance for an injured firefighter.
The firefighter received minor injuries from broken glass, he was treated and released, said State Fire Marshal’s Office Chief Deputy Robert Fox.
After about 10 minutes crews reported that a primary search of the home for victims was negative. Nobody was in the home.
Crews working the interior of the home reported that the bulk of the fire had been knocked down inside the home, however, crews on the outside of the home reported heavy fire on the exterior of the home.
Shortly after those reports, interior crews reported that the fire had made its way back into the home and was spreading. As the flames spread rapidly Command ordered an evacuation of the building. Crews would now work the fire from the exterior of the home.
Crews did eventually make their way back into the home and the fire was placed under control at around 4:00 am this morning.
The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office has determined that this morning’s house fire in Wilmington, DE. was accidental.
Fire Marshals have determined that the fire originated in the basement of the residence and was caused by a candle igniting combustibles, according to Fox.
Damage is estimated at approximately $150,000. The Red Cross of Delmarva is assisting the residents of the building.