Man Burned by Fire in Van Reported in Serious Condition
A 72-year-old man was in serious condition Wednesday night after a cigarette apparently started a fire in his van in Santa Ana and caused serious burns to more than 15% of his body, authorities said.
The incident occurred in the 3700 block of West McFadden Street about 2:15 p.m., said Capt. Randy Black of the Santa Ana Fire Department.
Paramedics at another call nearby responded to several 911 calls regarding the victim, identified as Russell Franklin of Santa Ana, Black said. When they arrived, Franklin had somehow managed to get out of his van and was hanging on to the vehicle door.
Numerous cigarette butts were found inside the van, where there was minor fire damage. Paramedics found a walker inside the van, leading them to believe he may be partially disabled, Black said.
Franklin was taken to UCI Medical Center and was reported in critical condition, hospital spokeswoman Kim Pine said.
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