Douglas County House Fire

At 02:15 on February 28th, 2023 South Metro Fire Rescue and West Metro Fire Rescue responded to a reported structure fire in a new construction neighborhood near N. Rampart Range Rd. and Monte Vista Ave. in Douglas County. While enroute, the glow from flames and an illuminated smoke column was visible from several miles away. West Metro Engine 15 and Medic 15 were first to arrive at 9915 Macthless St. where they found flames venting from the second floor and through the roof of a single-family home. A hose line was quickly deployed to the garage alleyway to protect the nearby homes and darken down the fire, a challenging task with gusty winds. Once the fire was controlled from the exterior, a hose line was advanced inside where crews searched the home and extinguished all visible fire. The badly damaged structure was especially dangerous with a partial collapse and large hole in the second floor. Tower 18’s aerial platform was used by firefighters to open concealed areas of smoldering material and apply water from above. A ground ladder was also needed to access a burning soffit, and firefighters described the muddy conditions were the ladder needed to be placed as a “slip and slide.” No injuries occurred during the operation and crews prevented the fire from extended to neighboring homes. The SMFR Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating what caused the fire. Additional information provided by South Metro Fire Rescue