ARVADA, Colo. --
One of the two firefighters hurt while fighting a fire in early April remains in the hospital, and someone is trying to profit off their injuries, Arvada Fire said Monday.
The firefighters were burned fighting a fire at 6555 and 6565 Union Street, near West 65th Place, on April 3. The fire gutted two Arvada homes, forced the temporary evacuation of 15 nearby houses and hospitalized two firefighters with burns to their upper extremities.
One firefighter was released and one remains admitted, said Arvada Fire spokesman Scott Pribble. Neither have been identified.
"It has come to our attention that someone is using this opportunity to try to steal money from people," Pribble said.
A woman was contacted by someone on the phone who said they were representing the Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Foundation and were collecting donations for these firefighters, Pribble said.
However, they gave the address to a mail-receiving store and not the CPFF Foundation, Pribble said.
"We appreciate any donations that are given but citizens should understand that no one from the Arvada Fire Protection District or the Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Foundation will contact you directly to donate to this cause," Pribble said.
Authorities have determined the fire was caused by hot charcoal ashes that were "carelessly" left in a gas barbecue grill, Pribble said.
The hot ashes, left by someone hosting a home barbecue at 6555 Union St. Saturday night, were rekindled by high winds several hours later and ignited some boxes and dried leaves in the backyard, Pribble said.
The fire spread rapidly, fueled by a nearly full 5-gallon gas can and barbecue propane cylinder in the yard, he said.
Winds blowing north soon ignited a neighboring home, which suffered the worst damage, Pribble said.
Arvada police continue to investigate the case to determine if charges are warranted. Arvada police said they were called to that home earlier in the evening on a noise complaint. Arvada police spokeswoman Susan Medina said the homeowners were issued a warning.
Legitimate Fund Information:
Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Foundation
ATTN: Arvada Fire Fighters
2342 Broadway
Denver, CO 80205
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