Security bars slow rescuers at house fire; 80-year-old man dies
An 80-year-old man died from injuries sustained in an early morning fire Tuesday, according to the North Las Vegas Fire Department.
James Smith sustained burns to 20 percent of his body along with damage to his lungs from heat and smoke, the Fire Department reported.
Firefighters were alerted to the blaze at 12:16 a.m. at Smith's home, 1404 E. Piper Ave., near Civic Center Drive and Cheyenne Avenue, just east of Interstate 15. Units arrived at 12:21 a.m. and discovered smoke and flames showing, but were hindered by security bars on the doors and windows.
Smith was rescued at 12:30 a.m. and initially transported to North Vista Hospital. He was later transferred to University Medical Center.
According to the Fire Department, two 20-year-old men who were Smith's neighbors tried to enter the home with a garden hose. They were unable to do so because of the security bars. They then tried to spray water on the fire through a window while attempting to get James' attention. Both men suffered smoke inhalation and were treated at University Medical Center.
Several pets also died in the blaze.
The electrical fire caused $74,000 in damage, according to the Fire Department.
Contact reporter Antonio Planas at aplanas@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-4638.
