Children, woman jump from burning CT multi-family home; they were caught by people on ground

Four people and three dogs were rescued from a burning multi-family home in Middletown with the help of Good Samaritans and first responders on Sunday night.

The South Fire District was dispatched to a reported structure fire on 1 Durham Ave. in Middletown around 8:08 p.m. on Sunday, according to fire officials.

While en route to the fire, Middletown Central Communications received a reports of people possible trapped in an upstairs apartment, officials said.

Arriving first responders arrived quickly and found heavy fire at the back of the home coming from the second floor, according to officials.

Firefighters learned that two adults and two children jumped from the second floor. Officials said the two children and a female were caught by Good Samaritans, and the male jumped and was injured. All four were transported to Middlesex Hospital for minor injuries and smoke inhalation, according to officials.

Firefighters were able to rescue three dogs from the home, who were later cared for by Middletown Animal Control officers, officials said.

According to officials, the fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. The South Fire District received on-site assistance from the Middletown, Westfield and Middlefield Fire Departments, while station coverage was provided by the Haddam and Durham Fire Departments.

Officials said a total of five people were displaced from the residence and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.

“If you know the identities of the Good Samaritans, please contact South Fire District Chief James Trzaski, they were instrumental in saving the occupants life,” the fire department said in a social media post on Sunday.

The fire remains under investigation by the South Fire District Fire Marshal’s Office, with assistance from the Middletown Police Department.