Man dies in two-alarm fire at Alameda residence

The fire broke out about 6:15 a.m.

ALAMEDA — A 72-year-old man died early Friday after a two-alarm fire broke out at a two-story residence, fire officials said.

The blaze at the house in the 400 block of Central Avenue started about 6:15 a.m. Firefighters had the blaze under control within 30 minutes, then found the man in the back of the home.

An ambulance rushed him to a hospital, but medics there pronounced him dead, Alameda Fire Capt. Mike DeWindt said. Authorities did not identify the man immediately, pending notification of next of kin.

Flames and smoke were roaring out of the house when firefighters arrived, DeWindt said. About 25 firefighters from the city of Alameda responded. Crews remained at the scene past 7:30 a.m. to mop up and keep the flames from starting again.

Fire officials estimated $50,000 in damages to the residence. Investigators have not determined how the fire started.

Authorities blocked off Central Street to traffic in both directions as crews battled the blaze. Oakland firefighters covered the Alameda stations that were needed to fight Friday’s fire.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.