7 Hurt in Downtown Arson Fire

Six people, including two babies, were critically injured, and another received minor injuries after a fire was set in their downtown apartment building early today.

Officials said the blaze began on the third floor at 1116 S. Flower St. shortly after midnight and was put out less than 10 minutes later. Assistant Fire Chief Frank Borden said a flammable liquid was ignited in the hallway outside the two apartments where the injured people lived. Damage was estimated at $3,000. The victims were injured after they tried to run down the hallway and down a fire escape. Those in critical condition were identified as Eugenio Leon Sr., 26, and his son, Eugenio Jr., 2 1/2; Juan Leon, 18; Alicia Leon, 16; Otelia Hernandez, 20, and an unidentified 7-month-old baby.