According to a neighbor, the man had left the stove element on while cooking and likely drifted off or became lost in thought. He was startled by a sudden “bang” and realized his kitchen was on fire. Neighbors witnessed a thick plume of smoke rising into the sky.
The resident was treated for smoke inhalation by Hato Hone St John personnel outside his residence. Fenz received the emergency call at 3.50pm and dispatched crews from Roslyn, Dunedin, Willowbank, and Lookout Point to the scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters found the kitchen fully ablaze and worked diligently to extinguish the flames. By 5pm, crews were still present, ensuring all hotspots were dampened down. The fire was ultimately brought under control.
One individual in minor condition was transported to Dunedin Hospital, as confirmed by a Hato Hone St John spokesperson.
Contact: laine.priestley@odt.co.nz
