FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact Battalion Chief Jeff Sargis (760) 705-7122

On July 27, 2022 at approximately 4:56 p.m., the Escondido Police and Fire Communication Center received a report of a Residential Structure Fire in an apartment located in the area of E Ohio Ave. / E Grand Ave. in Escondido. A structure fire response was dispatched, the first arriving engine reported smoke seen from a distance and upgraded the incident to a working fire. Due to the potential for the fire to spread and the threat to life and property a second alarm was also requested.

Aggressive action by the firefighters contained and controlled the fire in approximately 20 minutes. The apartment sustained major damage to a downstairs unit and minor to moderate smoke damage to three additional units. One civilian, an adult male, sustained minor smoke inhalation. The patient was evaluated on scene and released. In all 9 fire engines, 2 trucks, 2 rescue ambulances and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded to the fire.

Escondido Police Units provided road closures. A gift card from California Fire Foundation was provided for immediate emergency aid to one resident as well as assistance from the Red Cross.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Safety message; Remember to check and maintain all smoke alarms, smoke alarms provide early warning to residents.