Poplar Street Fire Deemed Accidental

The Lancaster City Bureau of Fire has determined the early morning fire that claimed the lives of Lydia and Jose Montes on Feb. 14 was accidental.

The fire at 758 Poplar St. originated in a second-floor bedroom, but due to significant fire damage in the room of origin, investigators have not specifically cited a cause at this time.

The home sustained a total fire loss of $75,000. The fire was jointly investigated by the Lancaster City Fire Marshal Division, Lancaster City Bureau of Police and Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal.

The Lancaster City Bureau of Fire reminds residents to:

• Install non-replaceable 10-year battery powered smoke alarms on every floor and in every sleeping area.
• Test your smoke alarms every month by the pressing the “test” button.
• Ensure every person in your home understands and practices Exit Drills in The Home (E.D.I.T.H.) at least twice a year.

The Lancaster City Bureau of Fire can install smoke alarms free of charge to qualified homeowners in the Lancaster City. For more information on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, please contact the Lancaster City Fire Marshal Division by calling (717) 291-4869 or by email at firemarshal@cityoflancasterpa.gov.