A structure fire on Riggins Street forced two tenants to flee their apartment early Sunday morning, Lakeland Fire Department officials said.
A fire was reported at 115 Riggins St. in Lakeland shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday.
When firefighters arrived minutes later heavy smoke was pouring from the two-story apartment building, a Lakeland Fire Department news release states. The two tenants were alerted by smoke alarms and evacuated before the fire trucks arrived.
Firefighters began to attack the fire, but were quickly pushed back because of intense heat and the quick-spreading blaze inside.
The fire was under control about 4:49 a.m.
One tenant, who suffered minor burns, declined medical treatment.
Lakeland fire investigators are on the scene to determine the cause of the fire. Based on the preliminary investigation, It appears the fire was accidental in nature.
The structure fire caused an estimated $50,000 in property loss.
The American Red Cross was called to provide assistance to the displaced residents.
Responding units included Battalion Chief 1, Engine 11, Engine 41, Engine 21, Rescue 22, and Tower 15, all from the Lakeland Fire Department.
