Two firefighters were injured Monday afternoon during a fire and as many as four explosions that neighbors said sounded like shotgun blasts at a home between Rock Hill and York, reports www.charlotteobserver.com
Smoke from the fire that started before 4:30 p.m. could be seen for several miles and the explosion was heard by neighbors who called 911.
Several firefighters were working the scene at the time the firefighters were hurt and many rushed to their aid, pulling off turnout coats, flame retardant pants, protective masks and helmets and other clothing as the fallen firefighters lay on the ground.
The injured firefighters are from the Newport Fire Department and it is believed they were two of the paid firemen who work the day shift at the mostly volunteer department, said Charles Williamson, fire investigator for the York County Fire Marshal’s Office.
The condition of the firefighters is unknown, but both had leg injuries and one appeared to have been knocked out by the blast, said Domenic Manera, York Fire Department chief who was on the scene. Several firefighters, emergency medical workers and other emergency workers assisted the two injured firefighters next to the house while the fire was still raging before both were taken to Piedmont Medical Center for treatment.
The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation, Williamson said.
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