October 1st, 2013 at 1240hrs Tampa Fire Rescue crews responded to a structure fire located at 907 E. 23rd Avenue. On arrival, Tampa fire crews found a two-story residential home with heavy smoke coming from both floors and the roof of the home.
Firefighter’s entered the home in efforts to locate the fire and search for residents still inside. While no one was home, Tampa Firefighter’s found and rescued three cats and a 7-foot boa constrictor who were trapped on the second floor in a bedroom above the fire. The cats were taken to a rescue unit where they were given oxygen, all making a full recovery.
The cats, named Luna, Bonnie, and Leo along with Melsuine, the boa constrictor were then turned over to their owner Tania Jimenez, 31. The fire which caused significant damage to the home was declared under control in 15 minutes. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians reported. The cause and origin is under investigation by the Tampa Fire Marshlal’s office.
