Baltimore is reeling from a tragic event that claimed the lives of three courageous firefighters and left another fighting for his life. On Monday, these brave individuals were trapped in a fierce fire inside a vacant home, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the city’s history.
The firefighters were responding to a call in the New Southwest/Mount Clare neighborhood when the structure they were in partially collapsed. Despite the efforts of their fellow firefighters and emergency responders, Lt. Paul Butrim and firefighter/paramedic Kelsey Sadler were declared dead at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. EMT/firefighter Kenny Lacayo also lost his life, while EMT/firefighter John McMaster remains in the hospital. The combined 44 years of service these heroes dedicated to the department make their sacrifice even more poignant.
Mayor Brandon Scott expressed the city’s gratitude, stating, “Baltimore owes them the deepest gratitude and respect.” Fire Chief Niles Ford, visibly emotional, referred to the fallen and injured firefighters as part of his family, vowing to honor their bravery and courage.
The tragic incident occurred early Monday morning when the firefighters responded to a vacant structure, which had previously caught fire in 2015. While inside, the building unexpectedly collapsed, trapping them. One firefighter was quickly rescued, but it took an hour to extract the other two.
Dr. Thomas Scalea of Maryland Shock Trauma revealed that Sadler and Lacayo suffered cardiac arrests at the fire scene, which proved fatal. McMaster remains on life support, with the potential for worsening injuries. Scalea emphasized the importance of closely monitoring his condition.
Despite the valiant efforts of these firefighters, the intensity of the blaze proved too much to handle. Fire Chief Niles Ford explained their decision to enter the vacant rowhouse, citing the need to protect an adjacent occupied home. They believed they could control and extinguish the fire, but unfortunately, it was not possible.
Lt. Paul Butrim’s history of heroism, including saving a child from a burning apartment in 2015, showcases the dedication these firefighters had to their duty. Kenny Lacayo, remembered as a top responder and exceptional paramedic, leaves a void that resonates among his fellow volunteers.
This tragic event is a rarity for Baltimore, as the city had not experienced a firefighter loss since 2014. However, it raises concerns about vacant properties, a persistent challenge in a city with approximately 16,000 empty homes. Calls for reforms and preventative measures become crucial to avoid such devastating incidents.
As Baltimore mourns this profound loss, the memories of these firefighters will endure, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect our communities. This incident also sheds light on the challenges faced by firefighters and the urgent need for reforms to ensure their safety while safeguarding against the risks posed by vacant properties.
Sources: Firehouse, Baltimore Sun