Charlotte Fire Battles Intentionally Set Fire

CHARLOTTE FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE EARLY MORNING INTENTIONALLY SET FIRE. At approximately 2:43 a.m. on April 18, 2024, Charlotte Fire arrived on scene at the 2800 block of Grimes St. with heavy fire showing at a 2-story home.
While Charlotte Fire crews were working the fire inside the home, fire conditions rapidly changed which caused three firefighters to suffer serious non-life-threating injuries. At approximately 2:58 a.m., a “Mayday” was called.
An immediate 2nd alarm was struck, and all firefighters were instructed to evacuate the building.
Charlotte Fire then transitioned to a defensive fire attack.
It took our crews approximately an hour to bring the fire under control.
The three firefighters were transported to an area hospital and have been released.
The three residents of the home and their pet were uninjured and are being assisted by Red Cross. Working smoke detectors in the home alerted the family.
Charlotte Fire investigators determined the fire was intentionally set. The fire remains under investigation.
An intentionally set fire puts residents and firefighters in extreme danger. Charlotte Fire asks that anyone with information to please call CrimeStoppers at 704-334-1600.
When a “mayday” is called by a firefighter or group of firefighters, it means the firefighter is in immediate danger and needs assistance in removing themselves from the situation. This can range from, but not limited to, being trapped by falling debris, collapse of the structure, a rapid change in fire conditions, or running low on air. A “mayday” alerts all others on scene to recognize a firefighter is in trouble and needs help. Charlotte firefighters routinely train on the skills necessary to handle a mayday situation and rescue those in need.