Two Alarm Fire Claims Life of Walnut Creek Man Friday Night
January 12th, 2014A two alarm fire claimed the life of a Walnut Creek resident late Friday night.
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District was dispatched to a reported fire in a two story residential dwelling at 190 Hilltop Crescent in the unincorporated area of Walnut Creek at approximately 9:38 pm on Friday, January 10th. Fire crews arrived at the residence within 8 minutes and reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the second floor of the home. Crews learned of the potential rescue while responding to the fire and initiated a search and rescue operation shortly after their arrival. After a search of the structure, firefighters located the body of 62 year old Charles MacDonald. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The coroner will conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. Approximately 35 firefighters from Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Concord, and the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District helped to control the blaze. Damage is estimated at $220,000.
No firefighters or other occupants of the home were injured. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Fire District reminds homeowners to install, test, and maintain smoke alarms throughout their home. Smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, in the hall leading to each sleeping area, and at least one smoke alarm should be installed on each level of the home.
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