…suspect Daniel Brough “reckless,” “foolish” and “greedy” for his role in the deaths…charged with 3rd Degree Murder…
Aug 21, 2004
A blaze that killed two firefighters Friday night began in a tangle of wires and high-powered lamps that a man had set up to grow marijuana in a basement closet, authorities said. Fire Capt. John Taylor, 53, and firefighter Rey Rubio, 42, died when they were trapped by quick-moving flames as they tried to find the source of the smoky blaze in the home’s cellar.
The man who police say was responsible for the drug operation has been arrested and charged with third-degree murder. Philadelphia District Attorney Lynne Abraham called suspect Daniel Brough “reckless,” “foolish” and “greedy” for his role in the deaths. Brough, 35, also faces charges of marijuana possession, involuntary manslaughter and causing a catastrophe. Fire officials said the fire started in electrical circuits set up to run the heavy-duty lamps and fans used to nurture the marijuana plants, and spread more quickly because the hot lights had dried out the wood in the closet. Taylor was a decorated 32-year veteran of the department. Rubio had been fighting fires for 12 years. They appear to have died of smoke inhalation, officials said.
