A significant fire at a residential duplex in Oceanside left three adults and three children without a home today, but the diligent and courageous actions of firefighters prevented any injuries, as all occupants had evacuated the building before their arrival, according to FOX 5 San Diego.
The blaze was reported around 3:05 p.m. at a structure on the 300 block of Magdalena Drive. Firefighters from the Oceanside Fire Department (OFD) faced heavy smoke and flames engulfing the rear side of the duplex upon arrival, Patch reported. Neighbors had called 911 after spotting the fire, and a second-alarm response was requested, bringing in additional personnel from several North County agencies, as mentioned in a News Flash Media post on Facebook.
Firefighters quickly established a water supply from a nearby fire hydrant and pulled an attack hose line to conduct a primary search for any potential victims while also working to extinguish the growing fire. Additional firefighters were assigned to the roof for ventilation needs; they cut holes in the roof to let the gases and smoke out, which helped inside crews combat the fire, the FOX 5 San Diego report detailed. Due to their efficient and brave efforts, the fire was brought under control within 25 minutes.
The Red Cross provided support and resources to the six individuals affected by the incident. The fire caused significant damage to the duplex, rendering it uninhabitable for the time being. Another Patch article confirmed that the fire had originated in the rear of the structure.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, Oceanside Fire Investigators are working to determine the factors that led to this incident.
