Two people and several pets were rescued from a blaze Thursday morning that raced through four units at a Turlock apartment complex.
A total of four residents were treated at the scene by American Medical Response personnel, but declined transportation to an area hospital, the Turlock Fire Department reported.
The fire was reported at 8:40 a.m. Thursday at a complex in the 300 block of East Monte Vista Avenue.
The first firefighters to arrive at the scene found heavy smoke and flames coming from an upstairs and downstairs unit.
Two residents were trapped on the second floor and the firefighters quickly went into rescue operations. Both were safely rescued, as were several pets, said Turlock Fire Capt. Kevin Tidwell.
“Having a fire station with a staffed engine located one block away absolutely led to the best possible outcome in this situation,” said Turlock Fire Interim Chief Gary Carlson. “The crew’s ability to respond and take immediate action in this instance prevented major injuries and saved lives.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The occupants of the four residences were displaced due to extensive property loss and damage. The American Red Cross will be assisting them with needs resulting from the fire.
Turlock Fire Department responded with Engine 31, Engine 33, Engine 34, Truck 31, one battalion chief and two division chiefs. In accordance with the mutual aid agreement, Modesto Fire Chief 2 provided additional assistance as well as Ceres Fire, which responded with Engine 13, Engine 15 and one battalion chief. The Turlock Police Department provided crowd and traffic control while AMR provided patient care. TID and PG&E were also on-scene and secured utilities.
Anyone with information regarding this incident should be directed to Fire Marshal Mark Gomez at 209 669-2119 or mgomez@turlock.ca.us.
Arson suspected in railroad tie fire
A fire erupted in a large pile of railroad ties in south Turlock on Tuesday.
The Turlock Fire Department responded to a fire in an approximately 20-foot high by 400-foot long railroad tie pile along S. Golden State Boulevard at 6:48 p.m. on Tuesday.
Crews were able to bring the fire under control in approximately 15 minutes, but overhauling and ensuring all hot spots were completely took more time.
The fire is suspected to be caused by arson and is currently under investigation.
Resource sharing from neighboring departments was requested to assist with personnel and city coverage during the incident.
Check back at turlockjournal.com for more information on this incident.
