Man, Woman and Dog Died In Apartment Fire In Seattle’s Miller Park Neighborhood
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON (March 19, 2023) – A woman, man and a dog died after an apartment fire in Seattle’s Miller Park neighborhood, according to city officials.
Seattle Fire Department officials are saying that the accident took place around 11:40 p.m. on Thursday. The cause of the blaze is still unknown.
Firefighters were called to the scene in order to help all of the victims. Sadly, a man, woman and dog were all found dead in one unit.
The fire was eventually put out. Firefighters said that they encountered furniture and other personal items that blocked access to living spaces.
Liability For Seattle Apartment Fires
Despite continued improvement in fire safety guidelines, many people are killed or seriously injured every year in residential fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “More than one-quarter (26%) of reported fires in 2015-2019 occurred in homes. Even worse, three-quarters (75%) of civilian fire deaths and almost three-quarters (72%) of all reported injuries were caused by home fires.” There are a number of common causes of residential fires.
- Cooking
- Heating accidents
- Electrical malfunctions
Depending on the facts of any case, a property owner could face civil liability if someone dies in an apartment fire. Property owners have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. If a property owner failed to keep apartment exits and entrances clear of clutter, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. There are a number of steps that should be taken after an apartment fire.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough investigation should be conducted.
It can be hard to know where to begin after any residential fire. But it is important for accident victims to know that they do have rights. The family of any person that died in a residential fire may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A premises liability attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case free of cost and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Washington Apartment Fire
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the families of the two people that died in this fire. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to Seattle Fire Department officials. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other accidents like this.
Do you need more information about a Seattle apartment fire? Our team of consumer safety advocates are here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support after a fire we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
