A residential fire claimed the lives of three dogs and injured a man Monday morning in Belmont, according to fire officials.
Firefighters and police responded to the 3900 block of Christian Drive around 10 a.m. on reports of a structure on fire.
According to fire officials, first responders found smoke and flames coming from the home, and a 47-year-old man outside suffering from apparent smoke inhalation.
The man told fire officials he had left the home earlier, and upon returning saw that the house was on fire. He attempted to rescue the animals inside, but was unsuccessful because of the smoke and flames.
Fire officials said emergency personnel treated the man at the scene before he was transported to a hospital.
The fire was knocked down within 30 minutes of fire crews arriving, and no other injuries were reported, fire officials said.
An assessment of damage has yet to be determined and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
