Syracuse, N.Y. – It was a very busy July 4th for the Syracuse Fire Department. Firefighters responded to a significant number of medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, and outdoor fires. Additionally, crews battled two major structure fires during the evening hours.
The first structure fire was reported at 9:11 P.M. at 1314 West Onondaga Street. Firefighters were on the scene in less than two minutes and encountered heavy fire on the second floor and in the attic, with flames through the roof. After just a few minutes, conditions inside the dilapidated building became too dangerous for firefighters to continue an interior attack. The decision was made to withdraw everyone from the unoccupied building and fight the fire from the outside. A large section of the roof collapsed during the operation. It took approximately 45 minutes to bring the fire under control. Neighboring homes were not damaged, and no injuries were reported.
Less than one hour later, at 10:02 P.M., firefighters were called to 1300 South Avenue for a fire in a church. The first units to arrive reported heavy smoke and fire issuing from the single-story structure, and immediately began working to extinguish the blaze while simultaneously searching for trapped occupants. It was quickly determined that no one was inside, and firefighters were able to bring the fire under control in about 20 minutes. No injuries were reported.
Both fires are currently under investigation. The fire at 1300 South Avenue was the 42nd major structure fire Syracuse firefighters have fought this year.
