No working smoke detectors in deadly Bridgeport house fire, officials say
"This house did not have any working smoke alarms. So, we talk about the importance and how vital that is. It could have at least alerted the individuals to a fire a little earlier," Edwards said.
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A home on Hallock Street in Bridgeport did not have working smoke detectors when it went up in flames Tuesday night, killing the elderly homeowner, officials said.
More than 30 firefighters responded with the first arriving around 9:45 p.m., according to Fire Chief Lance Edwards. He said initial crews were met by the other person who lives there who told them his friend was still inside.
"Unfortunately, because of the volume of fire, they were unable to get to the victim," Edwards told News 12.
Edwards said the victim, who hasn't been publicly identified yet, was in his 80s. He was in his bedroom at the back of the home, which is where the bulk of the fire was, according to Edwards. Connecticut State police were called in, as well. Local and state investigators remained on the scene through Wednesday morning.
Bob Gentile, who lives around the corner, was in bed when the sirens came through.
"I heard the fire engines pull up, and I thought it was on Main Street. I thought it was one of the stores. I just peaked out. I didn't see anything, and I went back to bed," Gentile said.
He learned the emergency was closer to home when he woke up Wednesday and saw all the trucks.
"I grabbed a cup of coffee and walked down the street. I say, 'Wow!' Then I noticed this house," said Gentile.
Neighbors told News 12 the victim's name was John. One described him as "the nicest guy" and said he'd lived there his whole life. Another said he'd retired from the post office.
"It's just a shame," Gentile said.
The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation.
"This house did not have any working smoke alarms. So, we talk about the importance and how vital that is. It could have at least alerted the individuals to a fire a little earlier," Edwards said.
