A man was found dead inside a downtown Dover building after a major fire early Wednesday morning, according to city officials and first responders.
The blaze was reported around 2:40 a.m. on the northeast corner of West Loockerman and South New Streets, in a mixed-use building containing both apartments and businesses, according to a joint news release from the Dover Police Department, City of Dover Fire Department, City of Dover Fire Marshals Office, and City of Dover Emergency Management. At least seven fire departments responded, and it took them until 8 a.m. to bring the fire under control.
Seven people were transported to a hospital, with the majority being treated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation, officials said.
As of 8:30 a.m., the number of residents displaced was not yet known, according to officials, but those affected by the fire are instructed to contact the American Red Cross by calling 1-800-733-2767.
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Investigators are still working to determine the cause and origin of the fire.
Loockerman Street, from Queen Street to Governors Avenue, is expected to remain closed for several hours, as are several surrounding streets.
