Elderly Couple Critical After Northeast Philly House Fire
By Al Novack, Nicole Brewer
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- An elderly couple is in critical condition after a fire broke inside their home in the Burholme section of Northeast Philadelphia early Thursday morning.
The fire was discovered just before 3 a.m. inside the two-story home located along the 7400 block of Montour Street.
According to fire officials, a husband and his wife, both in their mid-80s, were found by firefighters in the second floor of the home.
The couple was rushed to Temple University Hospital's burn unit where they are listed in critical condition.
Deputy Fire Commissioner Derrick Sawyer said the home had smoke alarms, but they were not functioning properly.
"One thing we noticed, and it's a common theme, is that they had smoke alarms, but they were not working," Sawyer said.
The fire, which started in the first floor family room, caused extensive smoke and water damage. The fire spread to the rear portion of a neighboring home, causing minor damage.
Also in its path, years of memories inside a home, where the pair raised their family, and according to neighbors, where one of occupants lived as a child.
Neighbors expressed concern and offered support.
"If they need anything at all, we have their back and we're sending love and support for their family," said neighbor Megan Davis.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
