(OCALA, Fla.) Nov. 5, 2020 – On Wednesday, Nov. 4, Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) responded to reports of a structure fire at the 1400 block of NE 17th St. at 8:57 p.m.

OFR Engines 1, 3, and 5, Rescue 3, Tower 1, Battalion Chief 22, and a Safety Officer were dispatched to the call.

Upon arrival, crews encountered flames showing through a bedroom window. Firefighters were advised that a neighbor helped residents exit the home. The rescue crew assessed the residents while the engine crews initiated the fire attack.

The fire was knocked down by 9:12 p.m. Approximately 50% of the structure suffered fire damage.

Two residents were transported to the hospital due to smoke inhalation. Another two residents were evaluated on-site.

The cause of the fire is unknown.

The Ocala Police Department, Ocala Electric Utility, and Marion County Fire Rescue, the American Red Cross, and the fire department Chaplain also responded.