Woman Critically Injured In Oxygen Fire

By Andrew Gorosko

A local woman was in critical condition Thursday morning in Bridgeport Hospital’s burn center after receiving second- and third-degree burns on a third of her body Wednesday afternoon in an accidental flash fire which was fueled by an oxygen supply she was using, authorities said.

Maureen Carrigg, 58, of 6 Budd Drive received the burns on her head, arms, and torso while smoking a cigarette in bed, while using a pump-style oxygen supply, fire officials said.

Bridgeport Hospital spokesman John Cappiello said the burn center provides care comparable to that provided by a medical intensive care unit.

Newtown Hook and Ladder and Sandy Hook firemen responded to the 4:22 pm call at 6 Budd Drive after an automatic fire alarm sounded.

Corey Robinson, Hook and Ladder’s first assistant chief, who was the incident commander, arrived at the scene first at 4:25 pm. Robinson said the oxygen-rich environment had caused a flash fire in the bedroom where Ms Carrigg was in a hospital bed.

Some items in the bedroom ignited, but the fire did not cause much damage, he said. Ms Carrigg’s son was in the building when firefighters arrived, Robinson said.

Firefighters initially called for the Lifestar helicopter to transport Ms Carrigg, but the helicopter flight was called off after it was determined it would be better to transport her via ambulance, he said.

Fire Marshal Bill Halstead said his investigation into the circumstances surrounding the blaze is continuing. Halstead said he plans to speak to Ms Carrigg’s son in investigating the fire.

Firemen put out the blaze using pressurized water fire extinguishers, he said. 

Acting Police Chief Michael Kehoe said police went to the fire.

Detective Sergeant Henry Stormer, who is deputy fire marshal, is investigating the blaze for police.