INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Fire Department says a woman died Sunday morning after an apartment fire in downtown Indianapolis.
Firefighters responded to the Lucille Raines Residence, located in the 900 block of N Pennsylvania Street, around 5 a.m. and found heavy smoke on the fourth floor.
Witnesses told firefighters a woman, later identified as Sara Holt, 41, evacuated and re-entered her apartment twice but was later overcome by the smoke and did not make it out.
On June 2, the Marion County Coroner's office said the victim had been identified as Sara Holt, 41.
"The Indianapolis Fire Department would like to remind everyone – if a fire occurs in your home, apartment or building – please do not try and re-enter to gather personal effects or pets," public information officer Rita Reith said in a news release. "Get Out and Stay Out. The toxic effects of smoke will render you unconscious in minutes and can prove to be fatal – as evidenced by today’s unfortunate fatality. Our thoughts are with all who are affected by her loss."
The other 45 residents evacuated the building, including some who used the fire escape. Several of them were checked out by EMS at the scene and released.
IFD says there were working smoke alarms and no occupants were displaced.
The fire has been ruled accidental but the exact cause is still undetermined at this time.
-
Indy social workers, educators undergo youth mental health first aid training
Educators, counselors and social workers in Indianapolis are learning how to be the first source of support for kids facing mental health challenges.
Indiana, Kentucky planning agencies studying new, expanded passenger rail routes
The Indiana Department of Transportation received a federal grant in 2023 to explore an expansion of passenger rail service in Indianapolis.
Indiana leads the nation in track chair access at state parks
Traversing Indiana State Parks will soon be a little easier for people who use wheelchairs, thanks to 45 new track chairs.
Indiana announces $1 billion investment in life sciences
Indiana is committing $1 billion in performance-based incentives to attract and retain life sciences companies in the state, Governor Mike Braun announced Tuesday morning.