Woman Killed, Man In Critical Condition As Fire Rips Through CT Home

NEW BRITAIN, CT — A woman is dead and a man is in critical condition following a fire in New Britain on Monday, WFSB 3-TV reported. The fire was reported near the intersection of Chapman and Belden streets shortly before 12:30 p.m.

The fire was in the attic of a two-family home in what city officials said is an illegal apartment, according to WTNH News-8. Fire officials believe the victim became trapped in the attic.

Witnesses told WTNH News-8 that they saw people jumping from the home's windows. One man suffered burns and jumped out of a window to escape the blaze. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment and is believed to be in critical condition.

The building's owner had been fined for renting the apartment. The landlord was referred to housing court last week for failing to comply, WFSB 3-TV reported.

The home is a complete loss. Fire officials believe the fire started at the rear of the home, then spread to the attic, WTNH News-8 reported.

The fire marshal is investigating.

Read more at WTNH News-8 and WFSB 3-TV.