LANCASTER, Pa. — One person died in a three-alarm fire in Lancaster on New Year's Eve, officials said.
Emergency responders battled a fire in the 400 block of West Lemon Street. It broke out just before 10:35 a.m. on Dec. 31, according to Lancaster County 911 Dispatch.
Authorities say one 18-year-old died as a result of the fire. Their identity is not being released at this time.
Two people were taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries, according to a press release. It is unclear if the deceased was one of those injured.
Lancaster City Bureau of Fire Chief Todd Hutchinson said the fire started in the lower levels of a three-story duplex in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood before traveling up to the roof.
Officials are unsure if the home had working smoke detectors.
Approximately 50 firefighters from approximately seven agencies assisted at the scene. The fire was extinguished within 45 minutes.
The Lancaster City Fire Marshal Division, Lancaster City Bureau of Police and the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal’s office are investigating the cause of the fire.
The Lancaster City Bureau of Fire reminds all residents to:
- Install smoke detectors on every floor and in every bedroom.
- Test your smoke detectors every month by the pressing the “test” button.
- Ensure every person in your home understands and practices your home fire escape plan twice a year.
