Duplex Gutted as Man Burns Yule Tree Indoors

Duplex Gutted as Man Burns Yule Tree Indoors

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Madison, WI - A man burning a Christmas tree in a fireplace Wednesday destroyed a town of Windsor duplex when the tree erupted in flames.

Dane County sheriff's deputies said Terry J. Miles, 30, shoved a tree in the fireplace at the duplex he rented at 6800 Sunset Meadow Drive. He set it afire shortly after 3 p.m. and the fire quickly got out of control and Miles grabbed the burning tree and tried to get it outside. While he was rushing through the home the flames from the tree spread to the house, destroying both sides of the duplex.

Miles suffered first- and second-degree burns to his face and forearm and was taken to a hospital for treatment. The occupant of the other side of the duplex was not hurt.

The fire is estimated to have caused $220,000 in damage.

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