Durham firefighter killed, two others injured in building collapse during fire
DURHAM, N.C. (WWAY) — One Durham firefighter was killed and two others were injured Thursday morning when part of a burning building collapsed while crews were battling a fire, according to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
The Durham Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 410 Marly Drive around 3:15 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 8.
According to the SBI, the first fire truck arrived at 3:21 a.m. and found smoke and flames coming from the building.
The structure is described as a multistory commercial building that appeared to have been used as a residence.
Firefighters entered the building and began battling the flames as additional crews responded.
At approximately 3:31 a.m., part of the building’s roof collapsed, causing the second floor to collapse as well.
The SBI said multiple firefighters were on the roof and inside the first floor when the collapse occurred.
Several firefighters on the first floor became trapped.
One firefighter was killed in the line of duty, while two others were injured and transported to Duke Medical Center for treatment.
The conditions of the injured firefighters have not been released.
All occupants had evacuated the building before firefighters arrived, and no occupants were injured.
The SBI’s Arson Unit was requested to investigate the origin and cause of the fire, along with the circumstances surrounding the firefighter’s death.
SBI special agents are collecting evidence at the scene, and the agency will lead the investigation.
Multiple agencies responded, including the Durham Fire Department, Durham Police Department, Durham County EMS, Durham County Sheriff’s Office, Durham City/County Emergency Management, Raleigh Fire Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal and SBI.
The identity of the firefighter who died has not yet been released.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The SBI said additional information may be released as the investigation continues.
