Story/Photos by PETE GILBERT

At 0457 hrs., 08/14/2002, Christiana Fire Co. (Stas. 3-6-12) and Wilmington Manor Fire Co. (E32) were dispatched for a building fire at Lexington Green Apts.

At 0500, the alarm was redispatched as a working alarm, with possible subjects trapped on the third floor.

Delaware City Fire Co. (E15, Ladder 15) and Minquas Fire Co. (R23, RIT assignment) were added to the box.

Upon arrival, Deputy Chief (12) Larry DuHadaway reported heavy fire through the roof, and ordered a second alarm.

Shortly after the second alarm was called, Chief DuHadaway ordered an evacuation of the building to a stairwell collapse between the second and third floors.

An exterior attack was initiated, and a third alarm was ordered.

The incident was declared under control at approximately 0700, with all units working. The cause is under investigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshall Office.