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Duplex fire in Tampa started by child, officials say

The fire began a little before 11 a.m. Saturday. The Red Cross was contacted to help the displaced family.
 
Check tampabay.com for the latest breaking news and updates.
Check tampabay.com for the latest breaking news and updates. [ Photo illustration by ASHLEY DYE and LUIS SANTANA | Times ]
Published Oct. 16, 2021

A single story duplex in Tampa caught fire Saturday morning, according to a press release from Tampa Fire Rescue.

Fire fighters responded to a structure fire in the 8000 block of North 18th Street in Sulphur Springs shortly before 11 a.m., officials said.

When crews arrived, smoke and flames were visible from the duplex.

Told that a wheelchair-bound resident was still inside, firefighters found the person and gave them medical attention.

After a second sweep of the duplex, crews determined that no one else was inside.

Within minutes, the fire was under control. No other injuries were reported.

Fire investigators determined the cause of the fire was a young child playing with fire.

The American Red Cross was contacted to help the displaced family.

No other information was released.

Tampa Fire Rescue posted to its Facebook page a video of the fire, along with fire safety tips involving children.

This is a developing story. Stay with tampabay.com for updates.