Branchdale Duplex Destroyed By Fire Friday

NOTE: Article updated with new information on the cats previously reported as unaccounted as well as water issues at the scene.

A duplex in Branchdale, Reilly Township, was destroyed by fire Friday.

Firefighters were called to the scene at School Row shortly after 10 a.m. Friday. As emergency crews were nearing the scene, a column of smoke was rising from the structure. That column of smoke was clearly visible from Route 209.

Due to a compromised structure of the building, firefighters were forced to evacuate and take a defensive stance against the blaze at 10:30. Thick smoke and flames consumed the building for about 90 minutes.

Both 14 and 16 School Row were destroyed by fire in today’s incident.

Three adult residents between the two homes were uninjured and are receiving financial assistance from American Red Cross.

According to Newtown Fire Chief Lee Ruch Jr., one firefighter sustained an injury and has since been treated and released from a nearby hospital. It appeared he suffered a laceration to his head.

Seven dogs and several birds were rescued from the fire. Two cats died in the blaze, according to Ruch.

Friday’s incident drew a massive response from first responders, including fire crews from Newtown, Llewellyn, Heckscherville, Forestville, Minersville, Pottsville, Schuylkill Haven, Donaldson, Joliett, Sacramento, and tankers from surrounding areas. Tremont Ambulance was also at the scene along with police from Reilly and Branch townships and Minersville.

Ruch said water became an issue fighting the flames. A water main break in Forestville cut water from a hydrant across the street from the incident. Additional tankers had to be called to supply water for firefighters.

About halfway through the effort, water was restored to the hydrant, Ruch said.

A Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal is currently investigating a cause of Friday’s fire.

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