Sikeston child burned in fireplace accident

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Sikeston police are investigating an early Sunday fire in which a preschooler was burned.

About 1 a.m. Sunday, the Sikeston Department of Public Safety responded to a fire at 904 Ruth St., according to public information office Sgt. Jim McMillen. When officers arrived, they found a 3-year-old child with burns to the legs and face. People living at the home told police the injuries happened when they attempted to start a fire in the fireplace.

"Apparently, while trying to ignite the fire, a relative used a flammable substance to accelerate the flames," McMillen said. "Reportedly, during this application of a combustible liquid, the fire got out of control and burned the 3-year-old child who was standing nearby."

The child received first- and second-degree burns and was transported to a hospital for treatment. Police are continuing to investigate the incident, but currently don't suspect foul play.