A house fire in Hilliard this morning left two people critically injured and highlighted a severe hoarding situation. Crews from Norwich Township Fire Department responded to the emergency in the 5100 block of Bigelow Drive around 7:30 a.m. after a report of smoke emanating from the property. According to ABC6, firefighters were forced to take drastic measures to gain entry to the house, as none of the doors were accessible.
On arriving at the scene, firefighters worked to make their way inside the residence quickly. "Hoarding conditions" were said to have significantly impeded their entrance, breaking windows for access, as per a statement obtained by WBNS. Crews located two victims, both in their mid-70s, one in the kitchen and the other in a back bedroom. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and the extent of the hoarding condition is expected to play a significant role in the analysis.
The victims were transported to a local hospital and are listed in critical condition. The fire, which also sent smoke visible from the attic of the single-story dwelling, was contained without any reports of additional injuries. The emergency services' response has cast a light once more on the dangers that can come hidden within homes where hoarding has created hazardous conditions for occupants and rescuers alike.
