The Danville Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 157 Wood Avenue this evening at 6:29 pm. Crews arrived at 6:34 pm and found a small 1 story house with fire on the rear of the structure. Engine 4’s crew (from West Main Fire Station) pulled a hand line and began a defensive attack on the rear of the structure to extinguish of the fire. They found fire in the basement and first floor of the house extending into the attic. Engine 3’s crew (from Industrial Avenue Fire Station) pulled an additional hand line for extinguishment. Ladder 1’s crew (from Lynn Street Fire Station) forced entry into the first floor and searched the front two rooms for occupants with no one found inside. The Ladder was set up for water flow and began extinguishment. Once the bulk of the fire was extinguished, crews began an offensive attack and moved inside for final extinguishment and overhaul of the house. Engine 6’s crew (from Westover Drive Fire Station) established a Rapid Intervention Team and set up equipment.
The fire was knocked down and determined to be under control at 8:28 pm. The house sustained major fire, water and heat damage and the building was condemned. The house was vacant at the time of the fire.
The Danville Fire Department responded with three engines, a ladder truck, a command unit, a safety officer and a Fire Marshal. Sixteen fire personnel were on the scene for 3 hours and 45 minutes. The Danville Life Saving Crew, Danville Electric Department, Danville Water and Gas Department and Danville Police Department assisted on scene.
The cause of the fire was investigated by the Fire Marshal’s office and determined to be incendiary.
Chris Key
Battalion Chief