A tenant at St. Mark’s Terrace was hospitalized following an apartment fire on Tuesday afternoon. Penn Yan Police and the Penn Yan Fire Department were dispatched to the senior living complex around 2 p.m. for reports of a fire.
Upon arrival, officers found Robert Boyce, 65, in the hallway suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Emergency responders determined that the fire, which had already burned out by the time they entered the apartment, was caused by Boyce smoking while wearing an oxygen mask. The ignition of oxygen gas resulted in facial burns and injuries.
Boyce received immediate treatment at the scene from Penn Yan Ambulance personnel and was transported to Soldiers & Sailors Hospital. He was later airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital by Mercy Flight, where he remains in stable condition.
Police have not announced any charges in connection with the incident.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the extent of damage to the apartment. The investigation is ongoing.
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