EVERETT – One man was killed and a woman survived injury in a house fire in the 7300 block of McDougall Avenue Monday morning according to the Everett Fire Department.
Multiple 911 callers reported smoke and flames coming from the home, with initial reports indicating someone was still inside Everett Fire says. Two and a half minutes after dispatch, the first engine arrived and found an active fire on the lower level of a split-level home. Firefighters immediately entered the residence to begin fire suppression and search operations, working to locate the reported occupant.
Crews encountered challenging fire conditions inside the home that complicated search and firefighting operations. Despite firefighters’ efforts to reach the occupant, an adult male believed to be in his late 30s was found deceased inside the residence.
An adult female in her early 60s suffered minor burns and smoke inhalation and was transported initially to Providence Regional Medical Center Everett by South County Fire paramedics.
Fire crews brought the fire under control in approximately 20 minutes. Crews remained on scene, extinguishing remaining hot spots and checking for fire extension before transitioning to cleanup and inspection efforts. Mutual aid was provided by South County Fire and Mukilteo Fire Department.
According to EFD, preliminary information indicates that a working smoke alarm alerted the homeowner, who was upstairs at the time of the fire. She attempted to reach the male occupant but was unable to do so due to the intense fire conditions. The fire had already grown significantly, preventing the man from escaping.
Social workers with the City of Everett’s CARE team responded to the scene and met with family members to offer support, assistance, and resources. The team is also in communication with the American Red Cross to help coordinate any additional assistance for the residents.
The Everett Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the origin and cause of the fire. The Everett Police Department is conducting the death investigation, which is standard procedure following a fatal fire. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official identity of the deceased, as well as the cause and manner of death.
As a result of the fatal fire, Everett Fire Department is urging people to take precautions to prevent complications involving escape from a burning home or business.
- Create and practice a home fire escape plan. Identify two ways out of every room when possible, and make sure everyone in the household knows the plan.
- Keep exits and pathways clear. Maintain accessible routes to doors and windows so household members can escape quickly during an emergency.
- Get out and stay out. Never reenter a burning building.
- If a smoke alarm sounds or a fire is discovered, leave immediately, close doors behind you if possible, and call 911 from outside.
- A home fire can spread rapidly, leaving residents with very little time to escape. Taking a few minutes to prepare today can make a critical difference in an emergency.
- Check smoke alarms regularly. Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test them monthly.