By Craig Anderson

HARRINGTON — A Delaware State Police trooper who happened to be in the vicinity of an early morning fire arrived quickly and assisted a 14-year-old male from a house fire early Friday.

That was according to Houston Volunteer Fire Company Chief Delbert Ross, who lauded the efforts of firefighters, police and medical personnel responding to the blaze in the 3000 block of Jackson Ditch Road. The blaze was reported shortly after 12:30 a.m.

The youth suffered burns and was transported by Delaware State Police Aviation to Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, Pennsylvania. Additionally, a 33-year-old woman was admitted to the Bayhealth Sussex Campus suffering from smoke inhalation. Both victims were currently listed in stable condition, according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael G. Chionchio later Friday.

Harrington Fire Company Chief Robbie Brode said the apparent injuries upon arrival, especially the teens, “made it a lot more stressful situation. Every situation is stressful but when a young person is involved it makes it even more stressful.”

Fire was showing from the front of the home when firefighters arrived, Houston VFC Chief Ross said. Two DSP patrol vehicles were already at the scene, he said.

“Three trucks arrived, everyone went to work and did exactly what they were supposed to do,” he said. “Everything fell into place perfectly.”

Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigators went to the scene searching for the fire’s origin and cause. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $125,000, Mr. Chionchio said.

Five residents were displaced. The American Red Cross is providing emergency assistance.

Kent County EMS stabilized the 14-year-old victim before he was transported to the hospital by DSP Aviation. Harrington FC Chief Brode described the EMS responders as providing medical attention “quickly and diligently.”

In a Facebook post, Harrington FC said crews quickly knocked down the fire, provided thorough searches of the residence, ventilated, and overhauled the structure. Crews operated on the scene for approximately three hours before all units cleared and returned to quarters.

Also responding were the Felton, Carlisle and Farmington fire companies, and the Harrington Police Department.

The American Red Cross is providing emergency assistance for the five displaced residents.