UPDATE: Man dies after medical emergency that led to small apartment fire in The Junction

3:25 PM: Seattle Fire crews are on scene at the Alaska House apartment building (4545 42nd SW) for what was reported as a small fire contained to one apartment, but also has firefighters treating a reportedly seriously injured person. Updates to come.

3:48 PM: Firefighters told us at the scene that this was a kitchen fire and a person having a medical emergency, though we haven’t yet clarified whether the emergency preceded, or was a result of, the fire. The man is being taken to a hospital. Units should clear the scene (and street) within an hour.

5:44 PM: SFD spokesperson Kristin Tinsley says the man, in his mid-60s, did not survive – he “experienced a medical emergency while cooking, and was found slumped over the stove, triggering a fire response.” Medics were not able to save him. The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine his cause of death.

7 Replies to "UPDATE: Man dies after medical emergency that led to small apartment fire in The Junction"

  • Brenda Sue Luke November 11, 2021 (4:17 pm)

    My thanks to the blog for covering this. And even more thanks to the firefighters who responded. I live in the building. Obviously, we need to have a fire drill because our residents blocked the lobby. If management would actually have one, with proper training in advance, we’ll all sleep better in our places.

    • Erithan November 11, 2021 (9:12 pm)

      This is so sad, I’m at a loss, I was hoping he’d be ok. :(Agreed on firefighters and lack of planning because management doesn’t care. They also have no good plans for emergencies for those that can’t get down the stairs like myself. So many of us have begged for even the basic safety things to no avail. 😔 

  • Alki resident November 11, 2021 (7:03 pm)

    How awful, this makes me so sad. I’m so sorry. 

  • Erithan November 11, 2021 (9:08 pm)

    Oh no, I live there, I’d heard someone was hurt. Heartbreaking to hear he passed.

  • Mj November 11, 2021 (10:40 pm)

    Erithan – I’m confused how this unfortunate event could have been averted by apartment management?  

    • Erithan November 12, 2021 (1:04 am)

      My comment was meant as an add on to the poster I replied to about issues in our building. Apologies for the wording being confusing, I’ve been ill, and have been having a hard time wording things. I know that sadly, even better safety plans wouldn’t have helped in this case. 😔

    • 22blades November 12, 2021 (8:59 am)

      It has been my experience that Property Managers & Home Owner Associations, while adequate in responding to problems, turn a blind eye or plainly refuse input about preventative measures. A good example was the Condo collapse in Florida.

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