HUTCHINSON – Careless smoking is blamed for an apartment fire in Hutchinson just before 2a.m. on Wednesday, according to Deputy Fire Chief Doug Hanen.

Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from one of the basement apartments in the 700 block of East 4th Avenue.

The occupant of the apartment was outside, in need of medical care.

Reno County EMS transported the victim to the hospital in serious condition, according to Hanen.

The fire was controlled in 20 minutes. Units were on scene for two hours. Significant fire damage was sustained to the apartment and preliminary damage is estimated at $50,000.

One adult lived in the apartment. The Red Cross was called to assist 6 other individuals from other apartments.