3-Alarm condo fire 12/26/1699 at Harbour Close in New Haven, CT –
A call for smoke from the roof turned into an intense firefight that would last hours and leave 32 people homeless. The initial call was received at one o’clock and first-due Engine 11 arrived to find a large, three-story condo complex with smoke showing from the roof. It was their second multiple alarm in two days.
A second alarm was transmitted due to the size of the occupied, multiple-unit dwelling and the long stretch. The complex was located off of the street about one thousand feet and was only accessible from two sides. The fire quickly spread throughout voids and walls as firefighters were getting lines in place. One truck was able to access only a single side of the complex. Multiple ladders had to be carried and placed in order to gain access to begin opening up. A trench cut was placed slowing the spread of fire across the building cockloft, however the fire spread throughout the entire structure via other routes.
A third alarm was transmitted by orders of Chief of Department Alston. Companies chased the fire for hours. Due to access issues only one tower ladder could operated in a limited manner. Multiple hand lines were no match for the deep seated fire. The fire took about six hours to bring under control. Thirty two people were left homeless. One firefighter and one civilian were transported to the hospital. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Glenn Duda
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Glen Duda photo
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Glen Duda photo
Glen Duda photo
Glen Duda photo
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