Red Cross Providing Assistance for Memphis Family Following Fatal Blaze

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The Memphis Fire Department responded to a report of an apartment fire at 1275 Essex Drive, Monday, January 09, 2012 at 3:50 a.m. Upon arrival on the scene at 3:56 a.m., firefighters reported fire visible from the two story wood-frame apartments. Rescue and Firefighting operations began immediately.

Twenty-three (23) pieces of Fire/Rescue/EMS equipment and approximately fifty- two (52) emergency response personnel ultimately responded to the call. Battalion Chief J. Distretti was the commanding officer of this incident. The fire was brought under control at 4:08 a.m. During interior search procedures, the body of an adult male was found in the rear bedroom area. The name and age of the victim has not been released pending positive identification and notification of next of kin. The cause of death remains unknown pending the Shelby County Medical Examiner's Report. There were no firefighter injuries.

It has not been determined if the residence had a working smoke detector. Eight (8) units sustained smoke, fire and water damage. Total damage is estimated at $95,700 building and $19,500 contents. The origin and cause of the fire is inconclusive at this time. This fire remains under investigation. The American Red Cross provided assistance for one (1) family.

The Memphis Fire Department urges all citizens to maintain a working smoke detector in their place of residence. Any City of Memphis resident can apply for a free smoke detector by contacting the Fire Museum of Memphis at (901) 320-5650. Always have a plan of escape in case there is a fire. Also remember that 9-1-1 is for emergencies only. For all other FIRE/EMS NON-EMERGENCY issues please dial (901) 458-8281.



Author:Memphis Fire Department Press Release