Two were found dead after a late-night house fire in the Arden area. One person escaped, and a firefighter suffered a minor injury, officials say.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Two people were found dead after a residential structure fire late Tuesday night in the Arden area, according to the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District.

Fire crews were called around 10:15 p.m. to a single-story home in the 3500 block of William Way. 

When firefighters arrived, they encountered heavy fire conditions at the rear of the residence.

Crews were told that two people were still inside the home. Firefighters immediately began an aggressive fire attack and conducted a primary search despite challenging conditions, officials said.

One person was found dead after firefighters entered the home from the back. After gaining additional access and continuing a more thorough search, a second person was also found dead inside the residence.

Fire officials said the home had hoarder-like conditions, which significantly hindered firefighting operations and search efforts. 

Sparking power lines in the back of the residence also caused an additional challenge during the response.

Another person safely exited the home before fire crews arrived. Officials confirmed a working smoke alarm was present and alerted occupants to the fire.

During the incident, one firefighter sustained a minor hand burn and received medical attention. No other injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.


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