Residents rescued, multiple first responders hospitalized following intense basement fire in Roanoke
Roanoke, Virginia – A basement fire on Courtland Road NW in Roanoke sent multiple people, including several firefighters, to the hospital Monday after a dramatic and dangerous response that was made even more difficult by icy conditions.
According to the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department, the emergency began Thursday at 10:46 AM, when crews were dispatched to the 2700 block of Courtland Road NW after a 911 caller reported thick black smoke in the basement and people still inside the home. Emergency dispatchers advised all occupants to evacuate immediately.
Just two minutes later, at 10:48 AM, Engine 2 A-Shift arrived and saw smoke coming from the corner of the house. The call was upgraded to a working fire, and additional Medic Trucks and an Engine were requested. Firefighters made entry into the basement where they encountered active flames. Meanwhile, one resident was rescued through a window on the first floor and taken to a hospital. Two other victims were treated at the scene with minor injuries.
Tragedy nearly struck when, at 11:01 AM, a mayday was declared by firefighters from Engine 5 and Ladder 5 who became trapped inside the structure. The Rapid Intervention Crew sprang into action and successfully evacuated the team. By 11:06 AM, all fire personnel had made it safely outside, and Battalion 2 transitioned the operation to exterior firefighting.
In total, four firefighters were hospitalized—two with minor injuries, one with moderate injuries, and one in serious condition. As of now, two firefighters remain hospitalized at a specialized burn center while two others have been released.
The fire was declared under control at 12:10 PM.
“Fireground Operations are more complex in the icy conditions,” said Chief Hoback. “Pulling hose, making entry, connecting to the hydrant is much more difficult when walking across ice. This is one of the things that we train for whether it is a rescue for a citizen or one of our own. We will continue to provide support for our team members and their families as they navigate the recovery process.”
The families of the injured firefighters have been notified, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s Office. Additional updates will be released as they become available.
Authorities extended their gratitude to the Roanoke Police Department, Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office, REMS, and the E-911 Dispatch Center for their coordinated support during the intense emergency response.
