A tragic event unfolded in Putnam County as a mobile home fire claimed the lives of three individuals and caused injuries to a firefighter today. The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatalities, and according to News4JAX, a call for prayers for the affected family has been issued. Responders to the blaze, the Palatka Fire Department, were able to transport the injured firefighter who, despite receiving minor injuries in the line of duty, is expected to recover.
Further details provided by the Putnam County Fire Professionals reveal that after extinguishing the fire, the State Fire Marshal's Office took over for investigation, as required for fatal incidents. This development was noted in a statement published by Action News JAX which highlighted the operational status, "Fire is out, The State Fire Marshals Office will be investigating due to it being a fatal fire."
The incident escalated rapidly, with officials describing the scene as "heavily involved," indicating a swift and extensive spread of the fire that engulfed a significant part of the residence. Three additional individuals, suffering from burn injuries, were urgently taken to a trauma center, as was shared on the sheriff's office Facebook page.
According to coverage by First Coast News, the efforts of multiple rescues from the fire were recognized by Putnam County Fire Rescue, despite the unfolding tragedy. The firefighter, sustaining injuries managed to arrive safely at the hospital and is confirmed to be in stable condition.
