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Canberra Today 12°/15° | Saturday, March 30, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

Firefighter, residents hospitalised in Belconnen blaze

A FIREFIGHTER and two others were taken to hospital after a blaze which completely destroyed a Belconnen apartment overnight. 

Multiple crews responded to reports of a fire at Howie Court in College Street at about 10pm, and arrived to find the flat fully alight.

Firefighters rescued two people from the burning property and evacuated about 20 residents before working on extinguishing the blaze.

While inside the unit fighting the blaze, firefighters were involved in a flashover. Their personal protective equipment prevented them from suffering any serious injury, but they were assessed on scene by intensive care paramedics for minor burns.

One of the firefighters was taken Calvary Hospital in a stable condition with superficial burns to his hands.

Intensive care paramedics assessed a total of four people on scene and two residents were taken to hospital with smoke inhalation.

Alternative accommodation is currently being arranged for affected residents.

At this stage the cause of the fire is unknown. A forensic examination is expected to occur today to determine if it is suspicious or not.

Police would like to speak to any witnesses who saw the fire and anyone who may have recorded the fire on their mobile phone.

Anyone who may be able to assist with the investigation should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or viawww.act.crimestoppers.com.au.

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Thank you,

Ian Meikle, editor

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