Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to an automatic alarm that was activated by a fire at Alexander House, located at 8560 2nd Ave in Silver Spring at approximately 11:30pm on Wednesday night.
According to MCFRS Chief Spokesperson Pete Piringer, the fire was controlled and extinguished by the sprinkler system that was automatically set off by the fire. The lone occupant of the apartment was located in a motorized wheelchair and was taken to the burn center with life-threatening injuries after suffering significant burns. The fire originated under the seat of the wheelchair and was caused by an unknown malfunction or failure of the motorized wheelchair. The adult patient is in their 70s and listed in critical condition. HazMat checked batteries on the wheelchair and advised they were not Lithium Ion. The other adult transported to the hospital was due to a medical emergency not related to the fire. There was approximately $50K in damage to contents and sprinkle activation.
Alexander House, Silver Spring, @MCFRS_EMIHS transported 2 patients, incl 1 adult from fire apartment, Pri1 w/ life threatening injuries & 1 adult unrelated to fire w/ medical emergency. Cause of fire under investigation, Damage ~$50K to contents, sprinkler activation https://t.co/FylxiqFUWx pic.twitter.com/Outyp1WJyw
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) May 4, 2023