The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office is currently investigating a fire that left a 40-year-old male critically injured Sunday.
Chief Deputy Robert Fox said the incident occurred around 3 PM on Saturday, January 14, 2024, when the Five Points Fire Company responded to a call about an outside fire in the unit block of Reamer Avenue in the Bellemoor neighborhood. Upon arrival, firefighters found the 40-year-old male victim with severe burns.
The male victim was initially taken to Christiana Hospital due to the severity of his burns and was subsequently transferred to the Crozer Medical Center Burn Unit. His condition is currently reported as critical. Additionally, a 33-year-old female, who attempted to provide first aid to the male, also suffered burns in the process. She was transported to Christiana Hospital, treated, and later released.
Sources familiar with the incident tell FSU that the man was adding an accelerant to a burn barrel while clearing storm debris. The sources also say high winds blew the accelerant on the man, leading to his severe injuries. Fox did not confirm those details in his statement.