Tampa firefighters say 19 people, including seven children, needed help after being displaced.

TAMPA – A fire that damaged four apartments and left 19 people without a home was started by a motorized toy car that malfunctioned, the Tampa Fire Department said.

A total of 19 people, including seven children, lost their homes in this morning’s (Aug. 12) blaze at Pebblewood Apts., 11316 N 52nd St. The Red Cross provided help, firefighters said.

Damage to the unit and its contents was estimated at $40,000.

Firefighters were called to the two-story multi-unit building about 5:15 a.m. When firefighters arrived, they found smoke and flames coming from one of the upstairs units.

Crews began attacking the fire while performing a search to make sure no victims were trapped inside. Surrounding units were evacuated while crews worked to prevent the spread of the fire through the
common attic. Firefighters had the fire under control within 35 minutes of getting the call.

According to the fire investigator’s report, the fire began inside the southeast corner of apartment unit 15. The resident saw fire on the couch as he left the apartment.

The fire spread quickly through the apartment causing major fire, heat, and smoke damage.

Investigators said the fire was caused by an electrical/mechanical malfunction of a Power Wheels motorized car.

Photo courtesy of Tampa Fire Rescue.

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