Tempe officer rescues elderly couple from house fire
Oct 9, 2012, 5:52 PM | Updated: 5:52 pm
A Tempe police officer pulled two elderly people from a burning mobile home on Sunday, the Tempe Police Department said in a release.
The fire was reported about 10:32 p.m. at 2401 W. Southern Ave. Fire crews were on the way, but Officer Paul Elenius arrived on the scene, he found the door to the home in flames. Neighbors had broken out windows and a second door in an attempt to rescue the couple.
Elenius went to the backside of the home and kicked in a door that was blocked by a table, among other debris. After gaining entry, Elenius carried the 71-year-old woman and 72-year-old man to safety.
The couple was taken to a local hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
Elenius was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene and released.
The Tempe Fire Department believe the fire was accidental, but are currently investigating.