NORTH HIGHLANDS, Calif. (PSN) — A fast-moving early morning duplex fire in the North Highlands community displaced multiple residents Tuesday after flames spread from a garage into adjoining residential units, according to the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District.
Firefighters were dispatched at approximately 4:02 a.m. to the 5128 block of Karm Way for reports of a structure fire involving a duplex residence.
Upon arrival, Metro Fire crews encountered a well-involved fire that had already extended into the adjoining duplex unit and a neighboring triplex residence.
According to Sacramento Metro Fire PIO Capt. Mark Nunez, two individuals — a mother and child — were transported to a local hospital with minor burn injuries. Both patients were reported to be in good condition Tuesday morning.
Investigators said one resident, who had just returned home from work, observed smoke coming from the adjoining unit. The resident immediately called 911 and began alerting neighbors by knocking on doors to help ensure nearby occupants safely evacuated the structure.
Metro Fire’s Investigation Team remained on scene Tuesday morning conducting a detailed investigation into the cause and origin of the fire.
Preliminary findings indicate the fire originated inside a garage before spreading into neighboring residential units.
Officials said it remains unclear whether the affected residences had functioning smoke alarms at the time of the fire. "A 2nd alarm was struck to bring additional resources to help with the developing incident. Only a portion was used and then immediately released."
Fire officials are reminding the public that when a fire occurs inside a home, occupants should immediately evacuate, call 911 from a safe location and never re-enter the structure.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.