Florida Firefighter Injured in Roof Collapse

Sept. 30, 2010
MIAMI -- A firefighter was injured in a fire that displaced a dozen people on Wednesday evening. The fire broke out at a two-story rooming house at 811 NW Second St. at about 5 p.m. Heavy smoke and flames shot from the top of the rooming house as Miami firefighters worked quickly to douse the flames. As they worked, part of the roof began to fall on the firefighters. "The fire department had a horrific time trying to get the fire out," said resident Colum Gallagher.

MIAMI --

A firefighter was injured in a fire that displaced a dozen people on Wednesday evening.

The fire broke out at a two-story rooming house at 811 NW Second St. at about 5 p.m.

Heavy smoke and flames shot from the top of the rooming house as Miami firefighters worked quickly to douse the flames. As they worked, part of the roof began to fall on the firefighters.

"The fire department had a horrific time trying to get the fire out," said resident Colum Gallagher.

One firefighter suffered second-degree burns. He was taken to a hospital in good condition.

The building was home to 12 people, all of whom must find a new place to live. Gallagher said he has only a few dollars left after the blaze destroyed his belongings.

"Some of my savings, some of my money, all burned up," Gallagher said.

The American Red Cross is helping the residents.

"It's OK. We will survive this," Gallagher said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Copyright 2010 by Post-Newsweek Stations. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed

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