76-year-old dies in Redlands house fire – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Redlands – A 76-year-old man died Sunday after a single-story home on the 100 block of Wabash Avenue caught fire in the late afternoon. The Redlands Fire Department received the call around 5:30 p.m. and arrived to find heavy smoke and flames. Firefighters quickly moved in to contain the blaze while searching for anyone inside.
Firefighters Respond to the Scene
Engine crews pulled up to the residence and immediately began attacking the fire from the exterior. The structure was fully involved in flames by the time they arrived, forcing a rapid assessment of the situation. Crews worked to knock down the fire while checking for occupants who might still be trapped inside the home.
Visibility was limited by thick smoke, yet firefighters pressed forward with their search. The single-story layout allowed teams to move through the property methodically once the flames were under control. No other residents were reported in the home at the time of the incident.
Victim Found in the Driveway
During the initial attack on the fire, firefighters located the 76-year-old man suffering from burns in the front driveway. He was outside the burning structure when crews reached him. Firefighters immediately began providing emergency medical care at the scene.
The man was the only person found at the address. His condition was critical from the start, and despite on-site efforts, he did not survive. Officials have not released details on how the fire started or whether the man had attempted to escape the home before collapsing outside.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Redlands fire investigators are now examining the property to determine the cause of the blaze. The single-story home sustained significant damage, and crews remained on scene to ensure the fire was fully extinguished. Neighbors in the area reported hearing sirens shortly after 5:30 p.m. as multiple units responded.
Authorities have not yet released the man’s name pending notification of family members. The incident marks another reminder of how quickly a residential fire can turn deadly, especially for older residents who may face greater challenges during an emergency.
