Miami‑Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies and fire‑rescue personnel arrived at an abandoned residence on NW 106th Street in the West Little River neighborhood shortly after 2:30 a.m. on Sunday following reports of a fire.
Firefighters contain blaze, no injuries reported
Fire‑rescue crews quickly extinguished the flames that had engulfed the structure. Deputies conducted a thorough canvass of the surrounding area, confirming that no one was injured during the incident.
Neighbor Angel Cameron, who was awakened by a sudden heat surge and bright light, described the scene: “I felt a warmth like the room started to get very, very hot, and when I woke up, I looked at the window and saw a bright light.” She stepped outside, recorded the fire and helped alert other residents.
Residents recall former occupant
Neighbors told NBC6 that the house’s former occupant, an elderly man who passed away several months ago, was known for collecting various items. “The old man that was here, it seemed as if he loved to collect stuff,” Cameron said. She added that in recent weeks, someone had been visiting the property to retrieve those belongings.
Despite the intensity of the fire, the structure’s fence melted under the heat, according to Cameron’s observation: “The fire was blazing so hard it melted the thing that’s on the fence.”
Firefighters praised for swift response
Cameron expressed gratitude for the emergency responders, stating, “It was a big fire, but these men, the firemen, I’ve got to give them thumbs up for their job.” Her comments underscore the community’s appreciation for first‑responders who protect neighborhoods from such hazards.
Arson investigation underway
The Miami‑Dade Sheriff’s Office has opened an arson investigation. Detectives will examine the scene for evidence of accelerants, examine surveillance footage from nearby streets, and interview witnesses to determine the cause of the fire.
Authorities have not released any further details about potential suspects or motives at this time. Residents are urged to report any information that may assist the investigation.
Safety reminders for the community
Officials remind residents that abandoned properties can pose fire hazards, especially when they become targets for vandalism or unauthorized entry. Keeping an eye on vacant homes, reporting suspicious activity, and ensuring that any gathering of combustible materials is monitored can help prevent future incidents.
The fire department’s rapid response and the sheriff’s office’s ongoing investigation demonstrate the coordinated effort to keep West Little River safe.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
