House Fire Causes Possible Life-Threatening Burns For Woodbridge Man

WOODBRIDGE, VA — A man suffered severe burns on Wednesday after he coaxed a dog out a burning house in Lake Ridge, according to the fire department.

The man, who authorities have not identified by name, suffered possible life-threatening burns. He is now receiving treatment at a burn center.

The dog is in "good condition," the fire department said in a news release on Wednesday morning.

Authorities have not determined an exact cause of the fire. However, the fire marshal's office believes the blaze may have been accidental.

The home sustained extensive damage, and the county building official declared it was unsafe to occupy. The American Red Cross is helping the displaced family of two adults, a child, and a dog.

Firefighters responded to a house in the 12000 block of Point Longstreet Way around 12:07 a.m. on Wednesday morning. When they arrived, first responders found heavy smoke and fire.

The residents said they woke up when they heard the fire on the back deck, according to the fire department. The family was able to evacuate the home, though one man did suffer severe burns as he coaxed the dog out of the building and escaped. Firefighters said they found him outside of the home when they arrived.

The fire marshal's office investigation into the fire is still ongoing.