People Jump From Balcony To Escape Milwaukee Fire

Feb. 8, 2009
A 7-year-old who was playing with a lighter started the fire.

MILWAUKEE --

Residents had to jump from a second-floor balcony to escape from a house fire.

The fire broke out at about 10 a.m. Saturday at a complex near the intersection of West Layton Avenue and South 20th Street.

"My buddy came running to my room, banging on my door saying there was a fire. I thought he was kidding but he was serious. I grabbed my stuff, got our brother up too. We saw the smoke. We tried walking through the hallway, but the smoke was too thick, so we jumped off the balcony," Jake Power said.

At least three people had to jump, but nobody was hurt.

Firefighters said that a 7-year-old who was playing with a lighter ignited some bedding and started the fire.

Seven people were helped out of the building. The Red Cross is assisting the victims.

No one was injured and firefighters said they did not hear smoke alarms when they arrived.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!