Smyrna Police are investigating a case that unfolded Wednesday morning just before 4. A resident of Imperial Gardens Apartment Complex called police stating there was a fire coming from apartment S-168. When officers responded, they noticed a large amount of smoke coming from the unit. Residing in the apartment was Hazel Starnes, 67 years of age.

Smyrna Lieutenant Bart Myers made entry into the apartment and began crawling on his stomach and located Ms. Starnes approximately 10 feet into the apartment. Lt. Myers was able to bring Ms. Starnes outside of the apartment. Smyrna Fire Department personnel began first aid until Rutherford County Ambulance Service arrived and took over.

The Smyrna Fire Department extinguished the blaze in the bedroom of the apartment and remained on the scene. Smyrna Police Chief Kevin Arnold told WGNS that Smyrna Police Detectives, the Smyrna Fire Department, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating the cause of the fire.

As for 67-year old Starnes, she was transported to Vanderbilt Hospital where at last report she was in critical condition in the burn unit. Lt. Myers, who saved Starnes from the fire, was treated and released from StoneCrest Hospital for smoke inhalation.

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Smyrna Police Chief Kevin Arnold