Resident Jumps From Balcony To Escape Apartment Fire

EDGEWOOD, MD — A man jumped from a second-floor balcony to escape an apartment fire in Edgewood, the state fire marshal's office said, and was taken to an area hospital for treatment.

The fire was reported about 10 p.m. Saturday at 1730 Crimson Tree Way in Edgewood in a two-story, four-unit, apartment building.

A 71-year-old apartment resident discovered the fire on top of his stove and tried to extinguish the fire, but it grew beyond his control, a news release from the fire marshal said. The resident escaped by going onto the balcony, where neighbors told him to jump.

Harford County Emergency Services took him to JHH Bayview Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition. The victim suffered burns to 20 to 30 percent of his body.

One firefighter suffered minor injuries and refused to be taken to the hospital.

The estimated damage to the building was $250,000, with an additional $250,000 loss to the contents inside, the fire marshal said.

Authorities said there was no fire alarm or sprinkler system in the building.

Five other residents in other units were displaced and are being assisted by friends, family, and Harford County Disaster Assistance.

Firefighters said moderate smoke, soot and water damage was done to the adjacent units.