Man escapes fire through window
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — A fire at an Allen Street residence, that resulted in one occupant being sent to the hospital, remains under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s Office.
“We received the call around 2:25 p.m. on Jan. 2 that there was a structure fire at 21 Allen St. Three engines, two Crown ambulances and about 18 firefighters responded,” said Captain Vince Baldwin, of the Presque Isle Fire Department.
Upon arrival, Baldwin said they found the tenant of the building in the driveway.
“Keith Antworth (no age given), who resided in the rental home, had jumped from a first-floor window in the back. He suffered wrist and arm injuries and was transported to The Aroostook Medical Center,” said Baldwin. The house is owned by Roger Pelkey, of Presque Isle.
Antworth was treated at TAMC and later flown to Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, where he was listed Monday in fair condition.
Baldwin said Antworth’s three cats were found deceased in the home.
“The cats died of smoke inhalation,” he said.
No other injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
“The fire remains under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s Office,” said Baldwin.
Tim Lowell, a fire investigator for the FMO, said no additional information is being released at this time with regard to the origin of the blaze.
“The building did not sustain extensive damage, thanks to the quick response by the PIFD. Firefighters kept it from spreading. We’re still conducting our investigation. The fire was centralized in the living room area of the home, with minor damage to adjoining rooms,” said Lowell. “Mr. Antworth lived alone and was the only injury reported.”
