State Police are investigating a Maxatawny Township residential fire as possible arson.
At 11:40 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 4, a resident fled her home to call 911, reporting that her husband had splashed himself with gasoline and saw him carrying propane tanks into their home, according to State Police from Reading.
Police did not release their names.
State Police report that the man had advised his wife to leave the house. Shortly after, a fire was reported at the house.
Fire crews responded to 15619 Kutztown Road in Maxatawny Township for the report of a residential structure fire.
During the suppression efforts, a firefighter was injured and suffered burns despite wearing all his protective bunker gear. He attempted to make entry due to the fact that the man was reported to be inside. The firefighter suffered burns on his left shoulder and damage to his bunker gear. He was treated and released from the hospital.
The man was unaccounted for during the initial fire response and subsequent investigation. An extensive search of the area was conducted and he was not located. He was located later in the evening in West Penn Township, Schuylkill County.
The fire is currently being investigated by State Police Fire Marshal Trooper Jansen Herb.
State Police were assisted by State Police Fogelsville, Northern Berks Police Department, Fleetwood Police, and Kutztown Police.
