A man was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries after a fire broke out at an apartment building on Stillwater Avenue in Old Town. The incident occurred on Sunday morning around 5 a.m.

Upon arrival, emergency crews were met with heavy flames engulfing the back of the building. The fire, deemed a dangerous situation, prompted a swift response to mitigate the threat to residents and the neighboring community.

Firefighters located the injured man in one of the second-floor apartments and swiftly transported him to a local hospital for immediate medical attention. Authorities have yet to release the identity and condition of the victim.

During the chaotic scene, a woman managed to escape the building by utilizing an extension cord to lower herself from a second-story window. Old Town Police officers arrived on the scene and provided assistance, ensuring her safe descent.

Kyle Milan, the Deputy Fire Chief for Old Town Fire Rescue, expressed relief that they were able to bring the fire under control relatively quickly. It took approximately an hour for firefighters to completely extinguish the flames. The primary focus was rescuing the second individual, and the combined efforts of the firefighting and law enforcement teams ensured her safety.

The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time. The State Fire Marshal is expected to investigate the scene on Sunday to determine the origins and circumstances leading to the incident.

Safety precautions were taken during the firefighting operation, resulting in the closure of Stillwater Avenue from College Avenue to Bennoch Road for several hours. This allowed crews the necessary space to combat the blaze efficiently and prevent potential hazards to onlookers and motorists.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness. Old Town Fire Rescue urges residents to install and regularly check smoke detectors, develop a fire escape plan, and familiarize themselves with basic fire safety practices.

As the investigation unfolds, residents and the community at large are urged to stay vigilant and cooperate with authorities to ensure a thorough and accurate determination of the cause of this devastating apartment fire.