A burlesque dancer faced a harrowing brush with death after becoming trapped inside her home during a suspected arson attack that left the property engulfed in flames.
The performer, known professionally as Betsy Rose, described the terrifying moment she realised her house was on fire while she slept. "I woke up to crackling noises and thought it was just the heating at first," she recounted. "Then I saw the smoke and knew something was terribly wrong."
Dramatic Escape from Blazing Property
Firefighters arrived at the scene to find the property well alight, with flames visible from neighbouring streets. Emergency crews worked frantically to contain the blaze while rescuing the trapped performer.
"The smoke was so thick I could barely see," Rose explained. "I tried to get to the front door but the flames had already cut off my escape route. I truly thought that might be it."
Community Shock at Deliberate Attack
Authorities have confirmed they are treating the incident as deliberate, with investigations ongoing to identify those responsible. Neighbours expressed their shock at the targeted attack on the quiet residential street.
Local resident Margaret Thompson said: "It's absolutely terrifying to think someone would do this deliberately. We're all just relieved Betsy got out alive."
Performer Vows to Continue Career
Despite the traumatic experience, the burlesque artist has vowed not to let the attack derail her career. "This won't stop me performing," she stated defiantly. "If anything, it's made me more determined to keep doing what I love."
Fire safety experts have used the incident to remind homeowners about the importance of working smoke alarms and having an escape plan. The property sustained significant damage in the blaze, with repairs expected to take several months.
