1 dead, 3 injured after fire burns through multiple homes on Long Island
BELLMORE, New York (WABC) -- One person is dead and three others are being treated for smoke inhalation after a fire burned through two Long Island homes and damaged a third early Wednesday morning.
The fire initially broke out at a home off Chapman Avenue in Bellmore, New York, around 4:30 a.m.
Firefighters said they attempted to enter the burning home, but were turned back by heavy flames.
"The flames going at least 20 feet up in the air... house was gone," said neighbor David Sheldon. "I never seen something like that before."
A hydrant covered in ice and snow had to be dug out which led to a "slight delay."
Bellmore Fire Department Chief Ozechowski said there were heavy fire conditions upon arrival, which then spread to a second house.
The residents of the second house safely evacuated themselves.
Flames led to structural collapse in both homes.
"Sadly (one) occupant is deceased at the scene, despite valiant efforts to rescue the trapped occupant by fire department and police officers," Chief Fire Marshal Michael F. Uttaro said in a statement.
Officials say the victim is a 72-year-old man.
Those who live on the street say it's a true community, and the loss of their neighbor is tragic.
"He was a wonderful neighbor to have. Very helpful," said neighbor Luchelly Contreras. "He loved gardening and I do too. And so he always used to come over and give me some of his art. And I would go over and see how his gardening was and vice versa. It's just devastating."
The Nassau County Fire Marshal said one resident, a 69-year-old woman, was taken to a local hospital where she is listed in critical condition, and is undergoing treatment for smoke inhalation.
Two police officers were also treated for smoke inhalation after attempting to enter the burning home.
The Homicide Squad, Arson Bomb Squad and Nassau County Fire Marshal responded to the scene.
The cause of the fire is unknown, and the investigation is ongoing.
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