SPRINGFIELD – A second-alarm fire broke out at the Northgate Manor Apartments in the 1800 block of L St early on Feb. 12, prompting a swift response from Eugene Springfield Fire. Firefighters arrived at the scene around 2:44 a.m. to find heavy flames emanating from the second floor of the two-story building.
Fire crews quickly focused on searching for victims and combating the intense blaze, which had spread to another apartment and the attic. Due to the fire’s severity and the number of units affected, additional resources were called in as part of the second alarm.
One occupant suffered smoke inhalation and injuries from jumping from the second floor and was transported to the hospital while other residents were safely evacuated. Firefighters used ladders to access areas where conventional entry was not possible. Two units were damaged in the fire.
Several cats perished in the fire; however, 15 cats, including several kittens, were rescued and taken to Station 3 for care before being retrieved by the Springfield Police Department.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
