PEORIA, Ill. — Peoria firefighters were called just before noon Tuesday to a home in the 1100 E. Melbourne on reports of a fire with an occupant possibly trapped inside.
Battalion Chief Nate Rice said crews found smoke coming from the front door and a man attempting to come out.
“He was using a walker. So, it took him a little bit of time to get out of his house,” Rice said.
The man was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The extent of his injuries were unknown.
Rice said oxygen bottles were found inside the home.
“I believe he was on oxygen. So, that may have contributed some to it. Because those materials can help the fire spread quicker,” Rice said.
The fire was contained to a bedroom. Crews had it knocked down within five minutes.
Investigators said the fire appeared to be accidental, but the cause remained under investigation.
Temporary housing was arranged for the home’s residents.
No firefighter injuries were reported.
