Two women were forced to make a terrifying leap from their balcony to escape a fast-moving fire that tore through a Sydney apartment block in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Emergency Response in Riverwood
Fire and Rescue NSW crews were called to a unit block on Truman Ave in Riverwood shortly after 1.15am following reports of a blaze. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with a serious fire that had taken hold of one of the units.
In a desperate bid for survival, two female residents, aged 31 and 37, were compelled to jump from their balcony to the ground below to avoid the flames and smoke. Both women sustained significant leg and foot injuries from the fall.
Scene Secured as Investigations Begin
Police officers on the scene assisted with the evacuation of other residents from the building while firefighters worked to contain and extinguish the blaze. Despite their efforts, the unit where the fire originated was completely destroyed.
The two injured women were treated at the scene by paramedics before being transported to hospital for further care. One was taken away on a stretcher. Authorities have confirmed there were no reports of any other injuries.
Blaze Treated as Suspicious
In a significant development, New South Wales Police have stated they are treating the fire as suspicious. A formal crime scene has been established at the Truman Ave address as investigators commence their work to determine the cause of the blaze.
"A crime scene has been established, and investigations have commenced," a police spokesperson said. The incident has shaken the local Riverwood community, with the destruction of the unit and the narrow escape of the two women serving as a stark reminder of the dangers of fire.
