Firefighter Slightly Injured in Indianapolis Apartment Blaze

Crews responded to a fire on Priscilla Avenue that displaced 3 adults and 4 children

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:31pm

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A firefighter with the Indianapolis Fire Department was slightly injured while battling an apartment fire on the city's east side on Saturday evening. The fire broke out around 6:05 p.m. in the 2800 block of Priscilla Avenue, with crews arriving to find heavy smoke coming from both floors of the two-story building. Investigators determined the fire started around a lit candle in the living room, and all occupants - 3 adults, 4 children, and a dog - were able to safely evacuate. The injured firefighter was transported to a local hospital after being struck by falling drywall.

Why it matters

Apartment fires pose a serious risk to public safety, and this incident highlights the dangers firefighters face when responding to such emergencies. The quick actions of the residents and firefighters likely prevented a more serious outcome, though the firefighter's injury underscores the need for continued training and safety protocols.

The details

According to the Indianapolis Fire Department, the fire started around a lit candle in the living room of the apartment. An occupant reported heavy smoke developing, prompting the evacuation of the 3 adults, 4 children (ages 1, 5, 8, and 10), and a dog. Firefighters made an aggressive attack on the blaze and were able to bring it under control in 35 minutes, but not before a large piece of ceiling drywall fell and struck one of the firefighters on the head, causing a slight injury.

  • The fire was reported at 6:05 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • Firefighters brought the fire under control in 35 minutes.

The players

Indianapolis Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to and battled the apartment fire.

Occupants

3 adults, 4 children (ages 1, 5, 8, and 10), and a dog who safely evacuated the apartment during the fire.

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What they’re saying

“Apartment fires pose a serious risk to public safety, and this incident highlights the dangers firefighters face when responding to such emergencies.”

— Indianapolis Fire Department (wishtv.com)

What’s next

The Indianapolis Fire Department's Fire Investigations unit is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, and the injured firefighter is expected to make a full recovery.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the critical role firefighters play in protecting their communities, as well as the need for continued vigilance and safety measures to prevent and respond to residential fires effectively.