Charlotte Fire Department

On March 7, 2011, at 8:24 a.m. (6) Companies of Charlotte Firefighters, (1) Heavy Rescue Company, (2) Deputy Chiefs, (2) Battalion Chiefs, and (2) Fire Investigators under the direction of Battalion Chief Gregory Sharpe responded to a structure fire at 1005 W. 4th Street in the Frazier Park community.

While enroute Fire Communications informed responding fire companies of a report stating people were trapped inside the home. Firefighters from nearby Station 5 arrived in less than five minutes and reported flames and smoke showing from a 1454 square foot 1-story house. CFD crews sprinted into action by stretching hoselines to engage in a firefight with the well-entrenched flames. While conducting a systematic search of the home firefighters encountered an adult male and were able to extricate him out a window.

Sadly and despite the prompt work of firefighters, an elderly female was located in a sitting room without the vital signs of life. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. The adult male was transported to an area trauma center with life-threatening injuries. As a result of the diligent effort of 27 firefighters, the fire was knocked down and brought under control in 35 minutes.

The cause of the fire was electrical in nature and began in a sitting area of the home. Damage caused by fire, smoke, water, and fire control are estimated at $120,000. Two puppies were safely removed by firefighters and reunited with family members. Although a monetary loss exists, one cannot truly be tabulated when there is loss of life. A positive identification of the deceased as well as the manner and time of death will be determined by the Mecklenburg County Coroner’s Office.

Eternally committed to duty and service,

Mark Basnight | Captain

Public Information Officer

Office of Media & Public Affairs

Charlotte Fire Department