A state police fire marshal said the July 23 fire at 44 W. Howard Avenue, Coaldale has been ruled accidental.

Two people were injured in the fire and a family of four was displaced.

State police at the Frackville barracks said the investigation determined the blaze was attributed to an unattended citronella candle that was along the rear porch wall.

Police said the home had been occupied by a 37-year-old man, 31-year-old woman and two children, ages 13 and 1.

They said Coaldale firemen were met by fire emanating from the rear of the home upon their arrival and firefighters made entry at the front of the home, rescuing the 13-year-old. He was flown by helicopter to the Lehigh Valley Hospital, Cedar Crest, Salisbury Township. The 37-year-old man was transported to the St. Luke’s Hospital, Miners Campus, Coaldale, to be treated for smoke inhalation.

The fire spread to 46 E. Howard Ave., which was unoccupied and received severe damage. Another home at 48 E. Howard Ave. was occupied and suffered minimal damage.

The 3-alarm fire brought volunteers from between 15 and 20 fire companies to the scene.