VIDEO: Firefighters from across Syracuse joined forces to combat one of the largest structure fires the department has faced in decades. The blaze engulfed the fourth floor of the St. Anthony’s Convent, posing significant risks to both firefighters and civilians.
“This fire is one of the largest we’ve fought in a few decades,” said Fire Chief Michael Monds. “Structure fires are dangerous for our firefighters and our civilians. It was a dangerous operation but they did a fantastic job.”
The operation began with a search for any victims inside the building; no one was inside. When it became clear that the fire could not be contained from within, those inside were ordered to evacuate. “Just six minutes later,” the Chief explained, “a chimney collapsed.” The Chief noted the challenges of pre-planning for vacant buildings, which are often difficult to assess. The primary objective upon arrival was to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent structures.
