Syracuse, N.Y. – At 4:48 a.m. the Syracuse Fire Department was called to 304 Village Drive in Eastwood for a reported structure fire. 911 callers indicated that multiple occupants, including a baby, were trapped in the burning apartment building. The first units were on scene in less than three minutes, and reported visible fire in at least two apartments with flames through the roof.
Due to the heavy volume of fire and the possibility that several people were trapped inside, additional fire companies were immediately added to the alarm assignment. Firefighters used a ladder to rescue two teenage occupants from a second floor window. After quickly searching the building, firefighters were able to determine that the baby was not inside.
The child was later found safe with a family member. It took nearly one hour to bring the fire under control, and the damage to the building is extensive. Nearly 50 firefighters were at the scene. Working smoke detectors alerted the residents of the building, many of whom were able to escape unassisted. One firefighter was transported to the hospital after suffering minor injuries. Two residents of the building were treated at the scene. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Displaced occupants have been put in contact with the American Red Cross for assistance with temporary shelter and other needs. The Syracuse Police Department, National Grid, and AMR also responded to the scene.
