Three Injured In Indio House Fire

Three people were treated for injuries after a house fire in Indio, Friday night.

People were able to see the smoke from two miles away. When News Channel 3 arrived, the smoke covered the entire street.

“I heard explosions, and I called 9-1-1,” said Jeff Dugan, who started taking pictures.

Pictures taken by another neighbor show the home owner, who was rescued from the flames. He suffered third degree burns, and was rushed to JFK Hospital.

One firrefighter was injured and transported to hospital in Rancho Cucamngaa where he’s recovering.

Another person was treated on the scene for smoke inhalation, according to the fire department.

Investigators say an electrical problem sparked the fire. Firefighters say construction materials and goods inside the home made it difficult to control the flames.

“This is a special situation because they were using the house a place to recycle,” said the investigating firefighter.”Most houses don’t have this. They were getting ready for a garage sale.”

Many neighbors were outside taking pictures and video of the flames. Some say they’re lucky the flames didn’t reach their homes.

“They’ve been cleaning it up,” said one neighbor.

A haz-mat crew was on the scene because unknown substances were found inside the home.

Damage was estimated at $100,000, with property saved calculated at $600,000.