CAMDEN COUNTY, Mo.-- Mid-County Fire Protection District personnel responding to a house fire over the weekend were involved in an accident when the driver of the engine truck lost control and ran off the road.
The crash occurred just minutes upon receiving the call for help. Four firefighters were in the engine truck headed to a residence Saturday on Route V in Linn Creek.
The accident happened around 11:40 a.m. on Route V and High Ridge Road. All four were taken to Lake Regional Hospital with minor injuries.
Other personnel from Mid-County and the Camdenton Fire Department continued to respond to the home located at 4759 Route V, according to a press release issued by Mid-County.
Crews contained the fire to the room where it had originated. Officials determined it started from an unattended candle.
According to Mid-County Chief Ron Gentry, the driver of the fire engine is a certified firefighter and has completed an extensive driving course. He has been with the district for a few years, he said.
According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, the 2002 Spartan firetruck was being driven by James M. Emery, 18, of Camdenton when he entered a left hand curve and ran off the right side of the road and struck a mailbox and driveway.
John S. Frost, 35, of Camdenton; Derek R. St. Onge, 18, of Lake Ozark; and James H. Wilson, 35, of Linn Creek were passengers.
Gentry said following protocol, they were taken to the hospital to be checked out and later released.
While the driver was restrained, the three passengers were not, according to the patrol report.
The value of the vehicle is estimated around $260,000, but officials say insurance inspectors will meet with them sometime this week to discuss damages.
Republished with permission of the Lake Sun Leader.
