Fatal Structure Fire

Photos Courtesy of the Colorado Springs Fire Department

At approximately 17:45 on May 10th, 2021, the Colorado Springs Fire Department responded to the 20 block of W Cheyenne Blvd. for a possible structure fire. Once units went en route, they could see a large column of smoke and upgraded the incident to a working structure fire. On scene, crews found a 500 square foot residence with flames showing from the Charlie side. Engine 4 grabbed a plug and Truck 4 was assigned 2 vent. Truck 1 was interim RIC and Engine 1 was assigned fire attack with Engine 4. Battalion 1 assumed Cheyenne Command. Upon entry Truck 4 found the home did have hoarder conditions and advised other crews to caution inside the home. Crews were able to get a knock on the fire and a primary search all clear at approximately 17:55. Engine 4 was able to confirm there was no fire extension beyond the fire room. HazMat 14 arrived and assumed Safety and Accountability, Rescue 17 was then canceled. HazMat 14 was then released and Engine 4 assumed the role of Safety and Accountability. At 18:02 the fire was declared under control. Command advised crews to conduct minimal overhaul due to the hoarder conditions in the home. Truck 1 and Engine 1 were then released. Engine 4 then found a body on the exterior under some trash and carpets and checked for signs of life. No signed of life were found and additional PD was requested due to a possible homicide. Crews soon cleared scene and left the investigation to the Colorado Springs Police Department and the Colorado Springs Fire Department’s Division of the Fire Marshal.

First Alarm Response: Engine 1, Engine 4, Truck 1, Truck 4, Battalion 1

Working Fire Response: HazMat 14, Rescue 17, Battalion 2, and 73 (PIO/EMS Liaison)

Colorado Springs Police Department, American Medical Response and Colorado Springs Utilities

Photos Courtesy of the Colorado Springs Fire Department

Photos Courtesy of the Colorado Springs Fire Department

Photos Courtesy of the Colorado Springs Fire Department