Lieutenant and crew trapped during a search
FirefighterNation Staff
WORCESTER – Officials announced the death of a Worcester firefighter at a press conference following a four-alarm fire earlier this morning.
Worcester Fire Chief Michael Lavoie said that Lieutenant Jason Menard died while searching for a occupant and baby on the third floor of 7 Stockholm Street.
Lieutenant Menard, 39, led Ladder 5 in a search for a reported person trapped with a baby in the burning structure.
Fire Chief Lavoie said that while Ladder 5 was gaining entry onto the third floor they became trapped by fire.
“Lieutenant Menard heroically and selflessly saved his crew, helping a probationary firefighter to the stairs and returning to help another trapped firefighter, helping him out the window,” Chief Lavoie told reporters.
The fire overtook the third floor and Lieutenant Menard was unable to escape.
Three other firefighters suffered injuries as did one resident.
One of the injured firefighters is in serious but stable condition.
Menard, a Worcester resident, is survived by his wife Tina, three children, and his parents.
Earlier:
WORCESTER — A mayday was transmitted during an early morning fire that injured at least three firefighters.
WCVB reports that firefighters responded to the call on Stockholm Street at 1:30 a.m.
Firefighters faced fire involving a multi-family dwelling on the coldest night the region has experienced in several months.
During firefighting operations, a mayday was transmitted from the third floor.
Three firefighters were injured, one seriously.
At least 10 occupants have been displaced by the fire. The Red Cross is assisting those residents.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Worcester Police Department are on the scene.
A press conference is expected at approximately 8:00 a.m.
The fireground operation went to four alarms bringing firefighters from the area to the scen.
