A fast-moving fire tore through a North Highlands duplex on Tuesday, severely damaging both living spaces and forcing a dozen people from their homes. Two residents were hospitalized for smoke inhalation and minor burns, and officials said no firefighters were hurt during the response.
According to ABC10, Sacramento Metro Fire crews arrived at 5128 Karm Way to find the blaze already well involved in one unit and spreading into the neighboring exposure unit. The agency said the fire displaced 12 people, sent two to a hospital with smoke inhalation and minor burn injuries, and left both units so heavily damaged that they are not expected to be habitable while investigators work to determine the cause.
The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District serves North Highlands and nearby unincorporated areas and operates local stations that respond to structure fires in the neighborhood. Metro Fire crews handled Tuesday’s firefight and were joined by investigators to figure out what sparked the blaze.
Neighbors sounded the alarm
A woman returning from work spotted the flames, alerted her family, then went door-to-door to warn nearby residents, helping people get out quickly, ABC10 reported. Neighbors gathered outside as crews worked to knock down the fire.
Damage and next steps
Officials said both sides of the duplex suffered significant damage and are not expected to be habitable while the investigation continues. For now, there is no announced timeline for repairs or for when the displaced residents might be allowed to return.
