SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio -- A 60-year-old man who neighborhood children called "Santa Claus" was found dead Monday inside a burning home in Springfield Township, fire officials said.
Firefighters arrived at the home on Timbermill Court at 9 a.m. and spent more than two hours battling the fire from outside.
Springfield Township Fire Department officials said they spotted the homeowner's car in his driveway when they arrived, but struggled to get inside for hours to see if he was home.
60-year-old man found dead inside fire on Timbermill. @WCPO pic.twitter.com/pLqIjQEZPG
— Jordan Burgess (@WCPOJordan) February 15, 2016
A firefighter sprained his ankle while battling the flames. The firefighter's injuries "do not appear serious," officials said.
Firefighters said they had trouble containing the fire because several items blocked passageways inside the home.
Crews eventually found the man dead in his kitchen, Springfield Township police said.
Neighbors said the man had a white beard, which led to his "Santa Claus" nickname.
Smoke still pouring from the home. Heavy damage to the house. @WCPO pic.twitter.com/G5c9JqZDmT
— Jordan Burgess (@WCPOJordan) February 15, 2016
Flames now coming from the roof of the home on Timbermill. @WCPO pic.twitter.com/DAvzIUnpdz
— Jordan Burgess (@WCPOJordan) February 15, 2016
