Douglas Kroese, Tragic Apartment Fire in Northeast Lincoln Claims One Life.
Lincoln Fire and Rescue confirmed that 73-year-old Douglas Kroese died in a fire at a northeast Lincoln apartment complex on Thursday.
The fire was reported shortly before 4 p.m. at the intersection of North 52nd Street and Leighton Avenue. Fire crews arrived to find several residents in immediate danger, prompting a second alarm to ensure adequate response.
According to Lincoln Fire and Rescue Public Information Officer MJ Lierman, the fire appears to have started in an exterior window well of a basement unit. From there, flames spread up the outside of the building and into the soffits and attic area, ultimately affecting the building’s primary stairwell exit. This blocked the route from the ground floor to the upper levels, leaving some residents with limited options to evacuate. Interior apartment damage was reported as minimal.
Emergency responders were able to assist multiple residents to safety. Two individuals reached a balcony where firefighters used ladders to bring them down. A dog was rescued from the building, and several cats escaped after firefighters opened doors; Lierman noted these were indoor-outdoor cats. Unfortunately, one person was found deceased near the building’s ground-level exit.
Timeline details shared by authorities indicate the call came in at 3:49 p.m., with the 911 caller reporting the need for rescue by 3:51 p.m. The second alarm was activated at 3:54 p.m., and the victim was located at 3:57 p.m. Firefighters declared the fire under control at 4:08 p.m.
Officials said high winds and dry conditions contributed to the challenges of containing the fire, making rapid response and safety measures critical.
Lincoln Fire and Rescue emphasized the importance of fire safety awareness, including working smoke alarms, clear exit paths, and understanding evacuation options. They also thanked first responders for their swift action, which helped bring multiple residents and pets to safety.
This incident underscores the dangers fires pose in residential buildings, even when interior damage is minimal. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blaze.
What steps can residents take to better protect themselves and their homes from unexpected fires?
