Engine 44 & Tanker on Fatal Fire - St. James
 
By Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Raley
April 16, 2014
 

13:19- Engine 44 and Tanker 4 was dispatched to 19555 Three Notch Road in St. James for a reported working house fire with subjects trapped. Upon notification, Safety Officer Francis Raley responded to the scene POV. On arrival he was told the owner of the house was still inside the burning portion of the house. After several attempts to gain access to the victim, Safety Officer Raley halted rescue due to the smoke and heat conditions. Bay District arrived shortly after and made a quick rescue. The victim was pulled from the burning house and CPR was initiated.

Crews from Engine 44 assisted with extinguishment on side Charlie and Delta utilizing a 2 1/2" attack line and later assisted with overhaul. Engine 44 provided water to Engine 33. Tanker 4 arrived and supplied Engine 44. Tanker 4 refilled from the hydrant system at St. Mary's College and transported 3 additional loads to the scene during the duration of the fire.

The house was a complete loss and is under investigation by the Maryland State Fire Marshal's office.

Ridge VFD would like to express our condolences to the victims family.

 
Units: Engine 44 and Tanker 4
 
Hyperlinks: Audio of the incident