SEATTLE — Eight people were rescued from an apartment fire at 823 Madison Street on Sunday night in Seattle. Three of those rescued were in serious condition.
Seattle Fire officials said the blaze caused an estimated loss of $1,000,000 and was accidental. Investigators found that it was caused by an open flame that tipped over and ignited a mattress, and was fueled by other combustibles.
People were calling for help from the fourth floor of the building, with many reports of heavy smoke and flames in the area, according to the Seattle Fire Department.
A service dog and an infant were among those rescued.
Of the residents who needed medical treatment, a man and a woman of approximately 60 years of age were in critical condition. A 81-year-old man was also being treated and was in serious condition.
Over 100 firefighters were dispatched to the fire, two of whom were transported to a medical center for care.
Firefighters had to make several holes in the roof of the building in order to contain the blaze, the residents of the 63 occupied units are providing emergency shelter, according to SFD.
The Red Cross is assisting residents impacted by the fire.
The Seattle Fire Department said the blaze was contained to the fourth floor, but both the third and fourth floors are uninhabitable.
The incident was ruled an accident, caused by an open flame that fell onto a mattress, setting it on fire. The fire spread through there, burning through the roof, according to SFD.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.