Candle blamed for fire at Senate Court apartment

Jefferson City firefighters depart the burned apartment unit Monday at 554 Senate Court. The fire left one man hospitalized due to smoke inhalation.
Jefferson City firefighters depart the burned apartment unit Monday at 554 Senate Court. The fire left one man hospitalized due to smoke inhalation.

An unattended candle is believed to started a structure fire Monday afternoon in Jefferson City

According to fire department reports, crews were dispatched at 3:45 p.m. to the 500 block of Senate Court for a structure fire in a 12-unit apartment complex.

Upon arrival, flames were showing from a ground-level apartment. 

The occupant of the apartment suffered from smoke inhalation and heat exposure and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. 

Other occupants from upper level apartments were forced to climb down the back balcony to escape the smoke and flames. They were treated for scrapes and bruises on the scene.

Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control in a short time, according to fire department officials. The Red Cross was called in to try and help apartment residents with whatever needs they might have.