Careless Smoker Apparently Causes Apartment Fire

A resident of the 1800 block of East Colorado Boulevard apparently caused major damage to an apartment unit and its contents with an accidental cigarette fire Wednesday night.

Along with Pasadena police, Pasadena Fire Department units responding to a report of the blaze at about 8:56 p.m. searched the unit for the resident but discovered the blaze had been mostly extinguished by the apartment manager and the resident was safe.

Officials estimated the damage to the building at $50,000 and to the apartment unit’s contents at $10,000.

“Make sure all candles, cigarettes or incense are put out in a proper fire proof receptacle before leaving your home,” Lisa Derderian, Pasadena Fire Department spokesperson, reminded the public.