BALTIMORE – “It was a war zone. It was nothing I ever, ever expected to see here, and hope I don’t again.”
That’s how Baltimore Firefighter Rick Hoffman described his shift Monday night as rioters set fires and attacked him and others as they tried to do their jobs.
“It was an absolute nightmare. In my 26 years as a firefighter here, I’ve never lived through anything like this, and I hope I never do again…”
Hoffman, president of IAFF Local 734, described the hostile environment that firefighters faced as they attempted to respond to more than 140 vehicle fires and about 23 structure fires.
Some vehicles were destroyed by the flames as crews couldn’t reach them either because of other incidents or the violence in the area.
- See Photo Gallery: Baltimore Firefighters Battle Fires Amid Riots
In addition to blocked, debris covered streets, rioters tossed bricks and rocks at fire engines. The delayed response gave flames an opportunity to spread out of control.
He voiced concern that rioters don’t realize there could be people sleeping in the houses they are setting on fire. “It’s dangerous, very dangerous because people may be trapped inside…Innocent victims were put in danger.”
Three firefighters were injured, and Hoffman added that he realizes how fortunate it was that no one was seriously hurt or worse. Windshields were shattered by debris and many rigs sustained dents.
“We were literally throwing the hoses back on the engines, and racing to the next fires. It was crazy. We’ve never seen anything like it…”
The unique situation also wound up with unique responses as firefighters from nearby counties were dispatched to assist. It was a mutual aid effort that he said was greatly appreciated.
Hoffman said he never imagined working a house fire with volunteers from Ferndale and Ellicott City as well as crews from Howard, Prince George’s and Anne Arundel counties and Washington, D.C.
While they didn’t know how the city firefighters operate, the crews followed commands and joined the effort. “People just don’t think about the ramifications.”
“Our hats are off for all those who sent help. It was phenomenal…”
Hoffman said he has no ill will for the people who are engaged in peaceful protests. But, it makes no sense to him why neighborhood stores, homes and cars were set on fire.
“Keep it friendly. That's all we ask."
He added that firefighters are prepared to respond when they get the call for help.
"Don't hinder us. Let us do our jobs."
