SEATTLE – On December 31 around 5:45 a.m. the Seattle Fire Alarm Center received a 911 call reporting a house fire on the 9200 Blk of Spear Pl S. Upon arrival, Engine 33 reported heavy fire from the east side of the house. Crews initially knocked down the fire from the outside before transitioning to an interior attack. While conducting a search of the residence, firefighters found two people and their injuries were incompatible with life. Also during firefighting operations, a firefighter partially fell through a hole on the first floor but was pulled out and uninjured.
The fire was under control by 6:26 a.m. and completely extinguished by 6:43 a.m. At the height of the fire, there were 6 engine companies and 4 truck companies. One firefighter sustained a minor injury.
UPDATE 1/23/19: Fire investigators have ruled this fire as accidental. Investigators determined the fire was most likely caused by a marijuana grow light that was located too close to combustibles, and ignited nearby material. The fire started near the east wall of the basement stairwell. The fire extended from the basement throughout the house. Total estimated loss is $50,000 to contents and $300,000 to the structure.
