Late Thursday night, a firefighter in Kalama was hospitalized after sustaining injuries while battling a house fire. The incident occurred in the 400 block of North 2nd Street, prompting a response from Cowlitz County Fire District 5. As the first engine made its way to the scene, a second alarm was called. Upon arrival, firefighting crews were met with a daunting sight. Flames engulfed the roof, as well as the first and second levels of the two-story Victorian home, which had been standing since 1900. Due to the intensity of the fire, only a partial search of the home could be conducted before the roof began to collapse.
We took this video from KPTV FOX 12 Oregon YouTube Channel.
Fortunately, the homeowner was not present during the incident, alleviating concerns for their safety. However, one firefighter sustained a non-life-threatening injury and was subsequently transported to St. John Hospital in Longview. After receiving treatment, the firefighter was released a few hours later. Although the fire has been successfully extinguished, crews will remain at the site throughout the day to ensure any potential hot spots are addressed. Tragically, the historical home, valued at over $500,000, is expected to be deemed a total loss.
As authorities work to determine the cause of the fire, an investigation is currently underway. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear at this time.
It is crucial for law enforcement agencies and communities to come together during times of crisis. This incident serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication exhibited by firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect others and their properties. It is important for individuals to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities or potential safety violations to local authorities.
In conclusion, the injured firefighter's hospitalization highlights the risks faced by emergency responders while fulfilling their duties. The community's support and cooperation are invaluable in helping law enforcement agencies uncover the cause of such incidents and prevent future occurrences.
Get highlights and special offers twice a month
We use a tool to capture how users interact with our websites so we can analyze and improve the user experience. Clicking “Accept” allows us to use this tool when you visit our websites. For more information, read our Privacy Center article on Cookies and tracking.