The latest reports are that 2 Firefighters have died in the Line of Duty. They responded mutual aid to that fire from the nearby New Tripoli Fire Company.
Around 1545 this afternoon companies responded to Clamtown Road/Route 443 in West Penn Township, near Tamaqua for that structure fire with possible entrapment.
Firefighters from around Schuylkill and surrounding counties including several tanker task forces were called. Roughly an hour into the fire, maydays were received from Firefighters on the second floor. On scene RIT teams went to rescue the 2 Firefighters, who were found, removed and transported to the St. Luke’s Miners Hospital in Coaldale.
Sadly, both Firefighters succumbed and were pronounced dead at the hospital by the Schuylkill County Coroner’s Office. The Coroner’s Office confirmed the Firefighters were from New Tripoli.
Additionally, the Coroner’s office was called to the scene of the fire after the body of a third person was found near the scene of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
EARLY ON VIDEO HERE:
https://www.facebook.com/albert.lubinsky/videos/4004766586341141
LATER VIDEO OF MAYDAY REMOVAL HERE:
Much more to follow. Our condolences to all those affected by this loss. Rest In Peace.