Early Morning Arson Fire

In the early hours of  Thursday July 31,2008 the North East Fire Department was dispatched to the 10300 block of West Main Road for a Structure Fire. On arrival Chief 211 confirmed a working fire in a 2 story commercial structure with heavy fire through the roof.  Engine 202 arrived on scene and placed 2 - 1 ¾” attack lines into service and entered the structure.  Crews battled heat and smoke as they advance to the second floor.  As they worked to make their attack on the fire, the roof began to collapse.  The order to evacuate by command was given.  Crescent Ladder 209 arrived on scene, set up at the A/D corner and began master stream operations to knock the bulk of the fire down.  Once the fire was knocked down, crews reentered the structure for the lengthy process of salvage and overhaul.  Crews used 1700 feet of 5”of LDH to supply the Engine and the Ladder.

 During and after salvage and overhaul there were several suspicions things noted in and around the structure.  The Chiefs began their investigation and notified the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal.  An eye witness stated that they saw 3-5 individuals leaving the area minutes before the fire was noticed.  The State Police Fire Marshal processed the scene with help from the fire department.  As of late Thursday several individuals had been questioned and were in custody on charges of Arson.  The N.E.F.D was assisted by Harborcreek, Fairfield, Ripley Fire Department and Emergecycare Paramedics.