And firefighter died after being trapped in a burning building in Philadelphiain which he saved another five people who were injured.
The fire was reported shortly before 2 a.m. Saturday at a building in North Philadelphia. Eight people who were inside were rescued safe and sound. But as they continued to put out the flames the building collapsedat 3:24 in the morning, said Craig Murphy, deputy commissioner of the Fire Department.
Lt. Sean Williamson, 51, was pronounced dead at the scene after he and another firefighter were freed from the rubble hours after the collapse. Three other firefighters and an inspector from the city’s Department of Licensing and Inspections were quickly rescued. A firefighter jumped from the second floor and avoided being trapped when the building collapsedMurphy added.
Two of the people injured were seriously injured. These are two firefighters who reported in critical but stable condition at Temple University Hospital. The other three victims were treated and released, authorities said.
fire commissioner, Adam Thiel, explained that rescuers were able to contact Williamson. Also with another firefighter for most of the hours they were trapped. However, due to the extent of the collapse and Williamson’s location within the structure, they were unable to save him.
Late firefighter was highly respected in Philly
The ex-marine was “highly respected throughout our department” and had trained “countless” cadets, Thiel said. Williamson will have a Fire Department funeral with ‘full honours’.
“Given the tremendous support that I’ve seen and we’ve seen as a department, expect it to be a pretty big event,” he added.
The Mayor of Philadelphia, Jim Kenneycalled it “a heartbreaking day for our city“.
“For more than 27 years, (Williamson) dedicated his life to serving and protecting the people of Philadelphia and sacrificed his life protecting others,” Kenney said in a statement. “Early this morning, like every day, he exemplified heroism by doing what our first responders do every day: Put on their uniform, drop off their loved ones, and do their sworn duty to protect and serve the residents of this city.” .
The fire marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) helps you.
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