House in Zutphen destroyed in fire likely sparked by cigarette, one hospitalized
An overnight fire completely destroyed a semi-detached house on Lijnbaanstraat in Zutphen early Sunday, Omroep Gelderland reported. The resident was taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation.
Around 2:30 in the morning, the De Hoven neighborhood saw the start of the fire. According to Omroep Gelderland's reporter, the resident said he may have fallen asleep with a lit cigarette, which likely ignited a pile of newspapers.
The flames spread rapidly through the home. The man woke up and attempted to put out the fire but was unable to contain it. The house was entirely destroyed.
Fire crews quickly scaled the incident up to a “large fire” and deployed three fire engines, an aerial platform, and several water tankers. An ambulance was also dispatched.
Emergency services said the resident was conscious and taken to the hospital as a precaution due to smoke inhalation.
The adjoining home suffered heavy smoke and water damage. Its residents were unharmed but cannot return home for the time being.
Despite the late hour, the blaze drew a large crowd. Dozens of onlookers gathered in the street and on a grassy field across from the homes.
