TOPEKA (KSNT) – A firefighter suffered injuries following an early morning structure fire in west Topeka that investigators believe was caused by arson.
Topeka Fire Department Battalion Chief Drew Culberth said in a press release that fire crews were called regarding a fire in the 400 block of Southwest MacVicar Avenue at midnight on Friday, Feb. 20. Firefighters arriving at the scene found an apartment building on fire.
Residents inside the apartment self-evacuated prior to the TFD’s arrival at the scene. Firefighters did rescue one dog from a second-floor apartment inside the structure, treating it before releasing the pet to its owner.
Topeka child suffered severe abuse before death: affidavit
Culberth said one firefighter responding to the situation suffered minor injuries during the incident and was transported to a local hospital for care. Police have arrested a 43-year-old Topeka man in connection to the fire on charges of aggravated battery and arson. The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with this active investigation.
(Photo By: Isabella Cahill)
(Photo By: Isabella Cahill)
(Photo By: Isabella Cahill)
“The Topeka Fire Department reminds residents that working smoke alarms are a critical first line of defense in a home fire and encourages all residents to ensure smoke alarms are properly installed and maintained.”
TFD press release excerpt
For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.
Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf
