Investigation Launched Into Fatal New Haven Fire

NEW HAVEN, CT — An investigation has been launched after an early morning Sunday fire killed two people in a two-family house that had 16 people living in it.

Some possible safety issues are being investigated at 150 West Street, including whether the smoke detectors in the building were operating correctly, said Fire Chief John Alston at a Monday afternoon press conference.

An investigation has also been launched into the true usage of the building, It is listed as a two-family residence, but there have been some reports that it was being used as a boarding house, which would necessitate a different kind of inspection.

Three tenants and four firefighters were injured during the blaze with some occupants jumping from the building. The state Office of the Medical Examiner was working to identify the two deceased.

One of the victims was heroic and banged on doors to alert residents to the fire, Alston said. Some of the victims remain in the hospital and one is still in critical condition.

Firefighters went in to rescue two people from a back stairway, but they eventually succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. Firefighters sustained minor burn and smoke inhalation injuries. The fire was under control in less than 20 minutes after the initial call.

Some residents reported that they didn't hear a smoke alarm go off.

Firefighters had difficulty getting to the top floor because the only access was a narrow stairway.

Around 30 firefighters responded to the fire, according to the New Haven Register. The state fire marshal’s office is also investigating the cause of the fire.

WTNH reports that the Livable City Initiative visited the home in the past and found that too many people were living inside it.

The 2.5 story home has 2,410 square feet with five bedrooms and two bathrooms, according to city property records.