Shortly after 10pm on Friday night, New City FD (Dept 9) responded to a report of smoke in the house at 7 Central Ave. Shortly after signing in service, the responding New City Fire Chief (9-1) was notified that multiple 911 callers were reporting flames coming from the 2 story house and possibly a victim still trapped inside.
Upon arriving on scene, 9-1 confirmed heavy fire showing from the front of the high ranch style house and also that there was in fact an elderly victim still trapped inside. Volunteers who had responded directly to the scene as well as Clarkstown police officers made initial efforts to access the trapped victim, but found the fire already had too strong of a hold.
After an additional pumper from Congers FD (Dept 3) and Hillcrest FD (Dept 6) were dispatched, 9-Command requested a pumper from Nanuet to respond to the scene. Upon arrival, crews from 8-1750, led by Captain Bill Schoenleber, were assigned to do a secondary search of the upstairs bedrooms of the house in an effort to locate the still missing victim.
Once the majority of fire was extinguished, Nanuet volunteers assisted in overhauling and dousing the remaining areas of the house. The victim, who unfortunately had already expired, was located after the majority of fire had been knocked down.
All units returned to normal service after midnight.
Units:
8-3, 8-4, 8-1750
New City Structure. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
New City Structure. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
New City Structure. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
New City Structure. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
New City Structure. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
New City Structure. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
Nanuet volunteers assist in packing hose after New City structure fire. 4/20/12. Photo: Phil Costa
