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Multi-vehicle Pileup in Colorado Kills Four, Injures Dozens Amid Winter Weather

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Multi-vehicle Pileup in Colorado Kills Four, Injures Dozens Amid Winter Weather

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• A 30-vehicle pileup on Interstate 70 near Limon, Colorado, killed four people and injured at least 29 others Friday.
• The crash occurred during severe winter weather with patchy fog and treacherous conditions, state troopers reported.
• Emergency responders from multiple agencies worked through the night to treat and transport victims.
• Interstate 70 was closed in both directions while crews cleared the scene and investigated the incident.

LIMON, COLO. — Four people were killed and at least 29 others were injured Friday in a 30-vehicle crash on Interstate 70 near Limon, Colorado, authorities said, as emergency responders worked through hazardous winter weather conditions.

Colorado State Patrol reported that the collisions began in patchy fog and slick pavement conditions late Friday afternoon, when visibility and roadway traction deteriorated rapidly along the east-west interstate corridor.

Multiple fire departments, EMS units and law enforcement agencies responded to the mass-casualty incident, treating victims on scene and transporting the injured to area hospitals. At least 10 victims were reported in critical condition, officials said.

Interstate 70 was temporarily closed in both directions around the crash site as crews conducted rescue, recovery and clearing operations through the night, the patrol said.

Troopers continue to investigate the incident, including the role of weather and road conditions in the sequence of collisions, and will release additional details as they become available.

IAFC Selects Former Acting U.S. Fire Administrator as CEO

FHD Staff
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IAFC Selects Former Acting U.S. Fire Administrator as CEO

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) selected Peter “Chris” Michaels as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective March 2.
• Michaels previously served as acting U.S. Fire Administrator and as North Carolina’s state fire marshal.
• He succeeds William “Bill” Bracic, who announced his retirement earlier this year.
• The IAFC board approved the appointment at its annual Winter Fire Chiefs Conference.

LEXINGTON, KY. — The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has named Peter “Chris” Michaels as its next chief executive officer, with his tenure set to begin March 2, the organization announced this week.

Donna Black.
International Associations of Fire Chiefs

Michaels, who previously served as acting U.S. Fire Administrator within the U.S. Fire Administration and as state fire marshal for North Carolina, brings more than three decades of fire service leadership experience to the position, IAFC officials said.

The IAFC Board of Directors approved Michaels’ appointment during the association’s Winter Fire Chiefs Conference held in Lexington, Kentucky, following the announcement that longtime CEO William “Bill” Bracic will retire.

Bracic has led the IAFC since 2007 and informed the board earlier this year of his plans to retire, officials said. The association described Michaels as a leader with “deep fire service roots and federal experience.”

Michaels will begin his duties in March, and IAFC representatives said transition planning is underway to support continuity of operations.

Oklahoma Wildfires Burn More Than 155,000 Acres; Four Firefighters Injured

FHD Staff
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Oklahoma Wildfires Burn More Than 155,000 Acres; Four Firefighters Injured

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• Wildfires burning across parts of Oklahoma have consumed more than 155,000 acres, prompting evacuations and fire response efforts.
• Four firefighters were injured battling the blazes, with at least one requiring hospital treatment, state officials said.
• High winds and dry conditions have driven fire growth and complicated suppression efforts across multiple counties.
• Evacuation orders remain in effect in some impacted communities as responders continue containment operations.

OKLAHOMA — Wildfires burning across Oklahoma have scorched over 155,000 acres and resulted in injuries to four firefighters as crews work to contain the blazes, state and local officials said.

The fires, which have impacted multiple counties in the state, spread rapidly in recent days amid persistent high winds and dry conditions that have challenged containment efforts, authorities said.

During firefighting operations, four personnel were injured, with at least one firefighter transported to a hospital for treatment, according to statements from fire officials.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for several communities in the path of the fires, and residents in affected areas have been urged to leave as crews continue suppression missions.

State and local fire agencies are coordinating response efforts, and officials said additional resources have been mobilized to support containment and protect structures in threatened areas.

Minnesota Departments Remember First Responders Slain During Domestic Violence Call

FHD Staff
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Minnesota Departments Remember First Responders Slain During Domestic Violence Call

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• A memorial service honored two Minnesota first responders killed during a 2019 domestic violence call in Minneapolis.
• Firefighter Jason “Jake” Thoreson and Minneapolis Police Officer Brian Hanson were killed at a duplex fire while assisting other officers.
• The event included remarks from department leaders, family members and colleagues.
• Attendees reaffirmed commitment to remembrance and support for affected families.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — Firefighters and law enforcement officers gathered this week to honor the memories of Firefighter Jason “Jake” Thoreson and Minneapolis Police Officer Brian Hanson, who were killed in the line of duty during a 2019 domestic violence response.

City of Burnsville/Facebook

Thoreson and Hanson died while responding to a report of a domestic violence incident that escalated into a fatal attack as they operated at a duplex fire in north Minneapolis, according to officials and family accounts shared at the ceremony.

The memorial service included remarks from Fire Department and Police Department leaders, who highlighted the service and sacrifice of both men and reflected on their enduring impact within the public safety community.

Family members and colleagues also spoke at the event, sharing personal reflections and honoring the careers and lives of Thoreson and Hanson.

Attendees reaffirmed support for the families of the fallen and acknowledged the continued risks faced by first responders on complex calls, with plans for ongoing remembrance activities.

FDNY Warns Hydrant Blocking Is Delaying Emergency Firefighting in New York City

FHD Staff
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FDNY Warns Hydrant Blocking Is Delaying Emergency Firefighting in New York City

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) said blocked fire hydrants are delaying firefighting efforts across New York City.
• Officials reported a 157% increase in 311 complaints about blocked hydrants over six years.
• FDNY has begun issuing criminal summonses and fines to drivers blocking hydrants at active fire scenes.
• Fire department leaders cited incidents where blocked hydrants forced crews to find alternate water sources.

NEW YORK, N.Y. — The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) warned this week that illegally parked vehicles blocking fire hydrants are hampering firefighting operations and can delay critical water access during emergencies.

FDNY officials said the number of complaints to the city’s 311 system about blocked hydrants climbed 157% over the past six years, with notable concentrations in parts of Queens and Brooklyn.

Department leaders cited multiple incidents, including a fatal Bronx fire response in early 2025, where a blocked hydrant forced crews to use alternative water sources and extend hose lines to reach the blaze.

In response, the FDNY has begun issuing criminal summonses and steep fines — ranging from $2,500 to $4,000 — to drivers who block hydrants at active fire scenes, officials said.

Fire department leadership emphasized that quick access to functioning hydrants is essential for effective firefighting and public safety, especially in densely populated urban areas.

Authorities continue to urge residents to avoid parking within 15 feet of fire hydrants and to report obstructions through the city’s 311 system to support emergency response efforts.

Maryland Firefighters Hurt During Multiple Rescues at Apartment Fire

FHD Staff
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Maryland Firefighters Hurt During Multiple Rescues at Apartment Fire

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• Multiple Prince George’s County, Maryland, firefighters were injured while executing rescues at a large apartment fire Thursday night.
• Crews responded to the fire on Holland Drive in Clinton shortly before 9 p.m. after reports of heavy smoke and fire.
• At least six residents were rescued from the building; some required medical treatment on scene or at hospitals.
• Firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and the fire’s cause remains under investigation.

CLINTON, MD. — Several firefighters with the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department were injured Thursday night while rescuing residents from a significant apartment building fire, officials said.

Units were dispatched to the 6000 block of Holland Drive in Clinton at about 8:57 p.m. after reports of heavy smoke and flames from a multi-family structure. Fire crews encountered fire conditions extending through multiple units upon arrival.

During rescue operations, firefighters located and removed at least six residents from the burning building, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS spokespersons confirmed. Some of those removed from the structure were evaluated by medical personnel and transported to hospitals for treatment.

Multiple firefighters suffered injuries during the incident while conducting rescues and fire suppression, department officials said. All reported injuries were described as non-life-threatening. Emergency medical units on scene treated some personnel, and others were taken to medical facilities for further evaluation.

The cause of the fire and the extent of the property damage have not yet been determined, and investigators remain on scene. Prince George’s County Fire/EMS and allied agencies continue to work to secure the site and complete their examination.

Tennessee Firefighter Assists in Rescue of Three From House Fire

FHD Staff
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Tennessee Firefighter Assists in Rescue of Three From House Fire

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• An off-duty Tennessee firefighter helped rescue three people from a house fire in McMinnville early Sunday.
• Firefighters responded to the blaze at a residence on Riverside Drive shortly before 2 a.m. and found heavy fire conditions.
• The off-duty firefighter, identified by officials, entered the home and assisted occupants to safety.
• Three adults were hospitalized with injuries not believed to be life-threatening; the fire remains under investigation.

MCMINNVILLE, TENN. — An off-duty firefighter helped rescue three adults from a house fire in McMinnville, Tennessee, early Sunday morning, local officials said.

Covington Firefighter Terrence Smith.
Covington Fire Department/Facebook

Emergency crews were dispatched to a residence on Riverside Drive just before 2 a.m. after reports of a structure fire, according to the McMinnville Fire Department. Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy flames and smoke conditions emanating from the home.

An off-duty McMinnville firefighter who was nearby responded to the scene and entered the burning building to help evacuate occupants, officials said. All three adults were removed from the residence and transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.

Fire crews worked to fully extinguish the blaze and remained on scene for several hours conducting overhaul operations. Authorities said the cause of the fire is under investigation, with additional details to be released as they become available.

Ogdensburg Fire Department Honors Fallen Firefighter With Vigil, Park Renaming

FHD Staff
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Ogdensburg Fire Department Honors Fallen Firefighter With Vigil, Park Renaming

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• A memorial vigil and park renaming honored Firefighter Robert “Bobby” Smith in Ogdensburg, New York, marking the anniversary of his Line-of-Duty Death (LODD).
• The city dedicated the former Firefighter Memorial Park as Firefighter Robert J. Smith Memorial Park during a ceremony attended by colleagues, family and local officials.
• Smith died in 2007 following a fire response; his service was recognized with speeches and a bell tolling.
• Local leaders reaffirmed support for first responders and community remembrance efforts during the event.

OGDENSBURG, N.Y. — Firefighter Robert J. “Bobby” Smith was honored Friday with a memorial vigil and official renaming of a park in his memory on the anniversary of his line-of-duty death. According to the Ogdensburg Fire Department, the ceremony drew firefighters, city officials, family members and community residents.

The City of Ogdensburg formally redesignated the existing Firefighter Memorial Park adjacent to the fire station as Firefighter Robert J. Smith Memorial Park during the event. Speakers reflected on Smith’s service and sacrifice, highlighting his contributions to the department and community.

Smith, a veteran member of the Ogdensburg Fire Department, died in 2007 following injuries sustained while responding to a fire. The ceremonial vigil included a bell ringing in his honor and moments of remembrance by attending firefighters.

City leaders at the gathering acknowledged the ongoing commitment of first responders and emphasized the importance of honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Additional details on the event and future commemorations are expected from the Ogdensburg Fire Department as they become available.

Church Explosion in Boonville, New York, Injures Firefighter and Four Others

FHD Staff
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Church Explosion in Boonville, New York, Injures Firefighter and Four Others

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• A propane-related explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Boonville, New York, Tuesday morning injured five people.
• Two people, including a Boonville firefighter, are in critical condition at hospitals following the blast.
• Three additional individuals suffered injuries not believed to be life-threatening, state police said.
• The church sustained catastrophic damage; officials say there’s no indication of criminal activity.
• New York State Police and fire departments are investigating the cause of the explosion.

BOONVILLE, N.Y. —
Authorities in Oneida County say five people were injured in an explosion at the Abundant Life Fellowship Church on State Route 12 in the Town of Boonville Tuesday morning.

The New York State Police reported that first responders were called at about 10:23 a.m. after reports of a gas odor inside the church. A member of the Boonville Fire Department entered the building during the response when the explosion occurred, officials said.

Two people, including a firefighter, remain in critical condition at Wynn Hospital in Utica, while three others are being treated for injuries that authorities do not believe are life-threatening.

State police described the damage to the church as “catastrophic” and said the building was heated by propane cylinders. Law enforcement personnel reported no indication of criminal activity in connection with the incident.

Investigators from the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation are assisting with the examination of the scene. Traffic on State Route 12 remains closed near Potato Hill Road as emergency crews continue work.

Further updates will be released by authorities as more information becomes available.

Ohio Launches Drone First Responder Pilot at Nine State Locations

FHD Staff
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Ohio Launches Drone First Responder Pilot at Nine State Locations

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• Ohio officials launched a Drone First Responder pilot at nine public safety locations across the state to expand aerial response capabilities.
• Participating agencies — including police, fire and EMS — will use standardized drones with rapid launch and real-time data streaming.
• The initiative is part of a state effort to integrate uncrewed aircraft into emergency response under Ohio House Bill 96.
• Operations are expected to begin spring 2026 and run about a year to evaluate statewide adoption.

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio officials announced the launch of a Drone First Responder pilot program at nine selected police, fire and EMS agencies across the state as part of a broader effort to integrate uncrewed aircraft systems into public safety operations.

The pilot provides participating agencies with standardized drone systems capable of rapid deployment and real-time video streaming to improve situational awareness at emergency incidents, officials said.

The initiative, created under Ohio House Bill 96, is managed by the Ohio Department of Transportation’s DriveOhio division with support from SkyfireAI and coordinated with local public safety leadership.

Pilot participants include public safety units in communities such as Springfield, Athens, Lima, Toledo, Violet Township, Austintown, Hamilton, Amherst and the Village of Kelleys Island.

Agency leaders said the drones will support missions including scene assessment and hazard identification while providing training, regulatory guidance and integration into the state’s uncrewed traffic management system.

Officials expect drone operations to begin in spring 2026 and continue for approximately one year, with data from the pilot informing decisions about future expansion and technology adoption statewide.

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