Roulette Chemical Engine #1 

MSG: DISPATCHED: 08/06/23 18:53:24

FIREST1 : STRUCTURE FIRE – 1ST ALARM

967 SARTWELL CREEK RD, Apt , PLEASVAL

Cross Streets : HANSON HOLLOW RD * WEIMER HOLLOW RD

On Sunday, during our weekly bingo fundraiser, Departments 46, 48, and McKean 3 were dispatched to a structure fire in Pleasant Valley Township.

While responding, Tioga County relayed supplemental info of flames through the roof with possible entrapment. Chief 46-10 upgraded the box to a second alarm with this information.

Upon arrival, units found the second floor well involved with part of the roof structure already collapsed. Initial attack crews encountered what appeared to be a rare backdraft event upon forcing the front door open for entry. This backdraft event did result in one Fire Fighter sustaining second degree burns and being transported to UPMC Cole.

Attack crews made entry immediately following and made an aggressive attack on the flames quickly knocking the fire down and allowing the second crew to make entry and finding the victim on the second floor.

The victim was quickly removed from the structure and brought to awaiting ambulance crews outside, but unfortunately the individual was unable to be resuscitated and the coroner and PSP Fire Marshal were contacted to come to the scene.

A second Fire Fighter suffered a minor injury during operations and was transported to UPMC Cole for treatment and was released.

Crews worked on scene for several hours doing extensive overhaul and mop up operations. The coroner and two Fire Marshals arrived on the scene and all investigations were conducted.

The cause of the blaze is undetermined due to the amount of damage suffered to the structure, but no foul play was evident. Damages are estimated at $100,000.00.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family on their loss, as well as with both injured Fire Fighters on their recovery. We would like to thank our mutual aid departments for their assistance at the scene, as well as the public for the outpouring words of encouragement and concerns for the injured members.

Assisted by: McKean 3, 48, 39, 49, Potter County Coroner’s Office, PSP – Fire Marshals, as well as other stand by units.

Respectfully,

Justin W. Fillhart

Chief 46