Miramar family narrowly escapes as raging fire destroys their home
MIRAMAR - Several family members were able to escape a raging house fire in Miramar early Thursday morning.
Nikki Fletcher saw her uncle's home was on fire from a video captured on a camera in the house. She wasn't there when it happened, but called 911 as soon as the video went to her phone.
"I said there's another old man he can't really see good. He can't hear. Somebody has to get there to get them out of there," she said.
The home's residents also frantically called 911 for help.
According to Miramar Fire Rescue, just before 3 a.m. they received calls about the residential fire in the 3300 block of 63 Avenue.
When firefighters arrived they were met by thick smoke and flames. They immediately began their attack to keep it from spreading. A few cars outside the home were damaged but it did spread to any other residences.
Homeowner Derrick Howe said he didn't have much time to get out when the flames woke him up.
"I try to open the front door and the door won't open," he said.
James Dyer said he had better luck getting the front door open but smoke came in so fast, so they escaped through the back.
"Just as I open the door, the whole place just come 'woof' right inside," he said.
There were no injuries reported, however, the home is likely a total loss.
Fletcher is still shocked that her uncle may not get to go back into his home.
"You see it on TV but, you know, until it really happens to you, you're like what is going on," she said.
The family believes the fire started in the garage. The state fire marshal has been called to investigate and determine what caused the fire.