The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has ruled that Saturday’s fire in Wilmington Delaware that injured three people was accidental, according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio.
Chionchio said the blaze, reported shortly before 5:00 pm, occurred in the unit block of Atkins Avenue in the Lancaster Village neighborhood. The Elsmere Fire Company arrived on the scene with flames visible on
the front of the house. Three occupants, ages 35, 8, and 6 were transported to the Christiana Hospital for smoke inhalation. All three victims were in good condition and expected to be released after
treatment.
State fire investigators responded to the call to determine the fire’s origin and cause. The fire originated on the home’s porch when a cardboard box full of sawdust from wood flooring spontaneously ignited engulfing items on the porch, said Chionchio. Two adults and two children have been displaced.
Heavy fire damage was estimated at $20,000.