An off-duty firefighter was credited with saving a woman and her stepfather as flames destroyed a Lakewood home and killed a number of rabbits and cats.
The fire in the 2000 block of Garland Street was first reported shortly after 12 p.m. by a neighbor, off-duty Boulder firefighter Dave Richter.
Richter ran to the home while calling 911. He helped the two people out of the house — Gary Strickland and his stepdaughter, Rhema Romero. Two dogs survived as well.
There were no injuries to firefighters or the residents.
Jana Strickland, Gary’s wife, said that two cats and two rabbits died in the blaze. Jana Strickland was at work at the time.
Cindy Matthews, spokeswoman for West Metro Fire Rescue, said the fire is under investigation.
But Gary Strickland told firefighters he was using a torch to do some work on the roof and gutters. He said he set the torch down after turning it off.
Matthews said there may have still been some flame in the torch. Fire investigators believe the flame may have ignited the tar and shingles.
The fire quickly spread and destroyed the home.
Jana Strickland said the couple had insurance and will find temporary housing while the home is rebuilt.
Barbara Millman, a neighbor, said a fund is being set up for the family. Donations can be made to Gary and Jana Strickland, c/o Jeffco Credit Union, 355 Union Blvd., Lakewood 80228.
Howard Pankratz: 303-954-1939 or hpankratz@denverpost.com
