CNBNews

FireFightingNEWS.com(New Jersey) - Shortly after 12:30 AM, on Dec. 13th, 2006, the Gloucester City Fire Department, along with units from Westville and Mt. Ephraim were dispatched to Broadway and Essex St. in Gloucester City for a reported building fire. First in units found heavy smoke and fire showing from a large three story bar and restaurant with apartments above.

A second alarm was quickly sounded, bringing two additional engines and a truck company along with Rescue 1 and Battalion 1 from the City of Camden.

The fire was located at the Pirate's Den, a bar and restaurant, with people were reported trapped in the above apartments. One occupant was removed and transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation, along with one fire fighter received non-life threatening injuries.

An aggressive interior attack was made, but fire fighters were forced to withdrawal due to extreme heavy fire conditions. An exterior attack was made as the fire was now advancing with flames through the roof.

A third alarm was quickly sounded, later followed by a fourth alarm for additional five-inch hose companies for water supply.

Five aerial ladders were placed in service along with numerous hand lines using master streams.

It took fire fighters almost two and a half hours before placing the fire under control.

The fire is under investigation by the Camden County Fire Marshall's Office.

Fire units were on location throughout the night and into the day with overhaul.

Written and photos by Bob Bartosz