Norwalk Firefighter Knocked Out, Injured Battling House Fire

NORWALK, CT — A firefighter was temporarily knocked unconscious and injured Monday afternoon while battling a house fire on Richlee Road in Norwalk, according to fire officials.

The 4:50 p.m. blaze appears to have been ignited by a lightning strike during Monday's heavy thunderstorm, and no other injuries were reported. A person inside the home at the time was able to escape with their two dogs, Norwalk Deputy Fire Chief Edward Prescott said in a statement. Firefighters also found a cat in a downstairs laundry room unharmed.

The firefighter was injured when sections of the ceiling fell on him. He had to be removed from the house by other firefighters and was transported to Norwalk Hospital for treatment. His identity has not been released, nor has his current condition, but Prescott said he was undergoing tests and was in good spirits. The house has been posted temporarily unfit for occupancy.

"Upon arrival at the split level ranch style home, heavy fire was engulfing the rear corner and had worked its way into the interior, of the home," Prescott said.

"Firefighters made entry through the front door to fight the fire that had engulfed the kitchen, dining room and living room. At the same time Firefighters contended with a 120 gallon propane tank against the rear of the home, that was blowing off pressure with a 40’ fireball. Fire crews cooled the propane tank to prevent a failure, until the contents were completely expelled through the relief valve."

The fire was under control by about 5:25 p.m., and firefighters finally left the scene by 7 p.m.

The Red Cross also responded and made temporary living arrangements for two adult occupants of the home and their two dogs and cat.

Fire Inspector Kosmas Kalmanidis is investigating the exact cause of the blaze.