Infant critically burned in Sanford firepit accident

SANFORD – A Sanford newborn was critically burned on Wednesday as the father was holding him and a 2-year-old son next to a firepit in their back yard.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office called it a freak incident that occurred when the baby, only 14 days old, was lying on a couch with his father next to the outdoor fire pit when the father’s coat caught fire and the child suffered serious burns.  

Investigators say 43-year-old Dirk Jelsing was holding the newborn and the toddler on the couch when the incident took place around 10:30 p.m. at 6 Weymouth St. Sparks from the fire are said to have ignited Jelsing’s coat. Investigators say Jelsing had been drinking, but it has not been determined if that played a factor in the incident.  

Cullum Jelsing suffered second- and third-degree burns and was initially taken to Southern Maine Health Care in Sanford and later transferred to the Shriner’s Hospital in Boston.

The father and the 2-year-old both sustained minor burns. Fire Marshals say once their investigation is complete they will consult with the York County District Attorney’s Office to review possible charges. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services also was involved during the night and placed the 2-year-old with relatives.