Photo by Paula & Rick Labrecque

Fire, police and ambulance crews responded to a working structure fire on New Bridge Street in West Springfield, Mass., at approximately 1400 HRS on Oct. 17. Upon arrival at the scene, units observed the fully involved third-floor attic and second-floor bedrooms. Flames engulfed the abandoned three-story wood-framed structure, and firefighters were recalled as quickly as they were deployed. Mutual-aid companies from Agawam and Springfield used defensive tactics, attacking the fire from the A, C and D sides.

Initially, housing materials kept the fire hidden and inside. However, conditions changed at approximately 1415 HRS when the second and third floors collapsed. With a hole in the center of the building, ladder trucks were then able to douse the base of the fire using a “surround and drown” strategy.

The fire was under control at approximately 1500 HRS. The cause of the fire was unknown and remains under investigation.

One firefighter who was slightly injured at the scene was taken to Baystate Medical Center, and released shortly after.

Photo by Paula & Rick Labrecque