FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) - Four people and a python were rescued from a burning home in Fort Lauderdale.
It happened just after 5:00 a.m., Tuesday, along the 1500 block of 11th Street.
“It’s a total loss,” said Ed Gelsey, a friend of the landlord. “I thought someone got killed in there. Because the place is really damaged.”
Firefighters said the fire started in the bedroom.
“The candle that I lit, the lighter stayed lit, and it fell between my bed and burned the plastic,” said Antwanette Damon. “And it just ignited and caught real fast. I was screaming for my nephew to come and help me.”
It took about 15 minutes to extinguish.
Crews were able to rescue four people and their pet python, Gypsie, still inside her enclosure.
“Well, that’s good that they saved the pet,” Gelsey said.
No one was hurt, but extensive damage was done to the home. A ceiling fan melted amidst the soot and ash that covered the interior, from boxes of food to the washer and dryer.
“I have enough to cook dinner for the family, but unfortunately right now. I don’t have anything. So I don’t know; we’re just going to pray,” said Damon. “Everything’s black. Everything is smoke damage.”
The Red Cross has been contacted to assist the displaced family.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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