LEESBURG, Fla. — A man and four dogs are dead after a house fire Thursday afternoon in Leesburg, according to the Leesburg Fire Department.
Firefighters arrived around 3:47 p.m. at 211 S. Nursery Road, responding to a residential fire after a neighbor reported hearing several explosions.
While responding, Battalion Chief Ricketson reported seeing smoke from the area of Main Street. Crews arrived to find the home about 25% involved in fire.
Bystanders informed firefighters that someone could still be inside the residence. While Engine 61 focused on putting out the fire, Engine 62 carried out a search of the home.
Firefighters found an adult male inside a bathroom. He was removed through a rear window and transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Crews also found four dogs inside kennels in the home. Firefighters rescued the animals and tried to save them with CPR and oxygen, but unfortunately, all four dogs passed away.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office was requested to help with the investigation. Authorities stated that investigators found several aspects needing additional scrutiny, such as multiple fire-damaged zones and two open gasoline containers discovered near the kitchen.
The cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the man’s death remain under investigation. Authorities have not announced whether the fire is considered accidental or suspicious.
The Leesburg Fire Department extended its condolences to the victim’s family and others affected by the incident.
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