A dramatic fire broke out on the evening of the 25th, engulfing a two-story abandoned wooden house located in the Chuo Ward of Fukuoka City. An 83-year-old male owner, who was present during the incident, suffered facial burns but fortunately is not facing any life-threatening injuries.
According to local residents, the fire began around 7:30 PM, with numerous calls made to emergency services reporting flames and smoke visible from the entrance of the unoccupied building. Witnesses alerted authorities, stating, "There were flames and smoke coming from the entrance" of the house, prompting immediate action from the local fire department.
The Fukuoka City Fire Department rushed to the scene, deploying 19 fire trucks to combat the blaze. By approximately 8:15 PM, firefighters had begun substantial efforts to extinguish the fire, which had quickly escalated since its discovery. Eyewitness accounts noted towering flames erupting from the structure, leading to widespread concern over possible injuries or property damage within the tightly packed residential area.
Firefighters battled the blaze for about one and a half hours before bringing it under control. Local officials confirmed the property was mostly destroyed by the fire, but thankfully, the flames did not spread to neighboring residences. According to the fire department's spokesperson, safety measures ensured there were no additional injuries reported.
During the fire incident, the homeowner was reportedly working on tasks inside the house when the blaze originated from the kitchen area. Reports reveal, "The owner was working inside the house when the fire broke out," as stated by police reports following the emergency response.
Upon realizing the fire, the man attempted to escape but suffered minor burns to his face. He was quickly transported to the hospital for treatment but was reassured by medical staff about the non-life-threatening nature of his injuries. Police and firefighters are currently investigating the exact cause of the fire, emphasizing the need for thorough scrutiny to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Officials, as well as local residents, expressed gratitude for the swift response of emergency services, reinforcing confidence in community safety during such unforeseen emergencies. The fire has heightened awareness of fire safety, particularly concerning abandoned properties—encouraging officials and residents alike to remain vigilant.
The scene of the fire, situated approximately 300 meters east from the Rokumonmatsu subway station, is part of a densely populated residential neighborhood. Fortunately, the area’s structure made it easier for emergency crews to mitigate the fire's impact on adjacent homes.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by abandoned buildings, with authorities urging property owners to maintain their properties to avoid similar events. The investigation is still underway, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.