Local News in Brief : Simi Woman, 91, Hurt as Fire Destroys Home

A 91-year-old woman who authorities said had been smoking in bed was critically injured Thursday when her Simi Valley house was destroyed by fire.

Although firefighters rescued her from the burning house, Alice Farber suffered severe smoke inhalation and respiratory arrest and was in critical condition at Simi Adventist Hospital, said Ventura County Fire Department spokeswoman Vicki Crabtree.

Firefighter Ed Spafford suffered first- and second-degree burns on the back of his hands and neck, Crabtree said. He was treated at Simi Adventist Hospital.

The fire, in the 1100 block of Stanford Drive, broke out about 7:15 a.m. and caused an estimated $100,000 in damage, Crabtree said. The fire was contained about 8 a.m. and extinguished by 10 a.m., she said.