BY BERNARD J. SCALLY
Roxborough Review/Montgomery News

Philadelphia—An early morning fire left many homeless and put one firefighter in critical condition. A fire alarm went off at around 5:30 a.m. at the Abby House Apartment complex on Domino La. It was the first of three alarms. The fire was declared under control by around 7 a.m.

According to reports, a firefighter was struck by a responding ladder truck. According to firefighters at the scene, the area was very dark with little lighting and the smoke from the fire was laying low to the ground making visibility extremely difficult. The injured firefighter was taken to the Intensive Care Unit at Einstein Medical Center. Originally listed as in critical condition, his status was upgraded by Sunday. His name has not yet been release. Two others who were injured were taken to Roxborough Memorial Hospital.

Residents who were left homeless were taken to a shelter set up at Shawmont Elementary School. Some at now on a waiting list for the Abby House sister location at Ridge and Shawmont Avenues.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Reprinted with permission