One killed in Phoenix apartment fire, several hurt jumping to escape

ADRIAN MARSH

One person died in an apartment fire in Phoenix on Saturday morning, according to Phoenix police.

Several others were injured when they jumped from a second-story window to escape the fire. Two firefighters were also injured fighting the blaze.

Both Phoenix and Tempe fire departments responded to reports of people being trapped in the apartment fire near 44th Place and Broadway Road.

Phoenix fire Capt. Larry Subervi said at least four people jumped out of a second-story window. They ranged in age from a 14-year-old girl to a 47-year-old man, Subervi said.

Most of the injuries are believed to be minor, but some of the jumpers suffered from mild smoke inhalation.

Phoenix police officials said an individual was later found dead in the apartment.

Alin Jaramillo, 25, was in a different apartment with her three children when she saw two people jumping out of a window on the second floor.

“It was scary,” she said. “People were yelling and screaming. My big boy got scared too.”

Jaramillo has been sitting outside in the heat since fire crews arrived and said it could be up to 24 hours before they are allowed back inside their apartment.

Subervi said a Tempe fire captain and a firefighter were also taken to the hospital with second-degree burns. They are both in stable condition, he said.