Three Baltimore City Firefighters Die in Rowhouse Collapse, Fourth Injured
The Baltimore City Fire Department suffered an unimaginable tragedy today, the Line Of Duty Deaths of three fire fighters, plus the serious injury of a fourth member. The four firefighters were advancing a hose line into and through a well involved three story row house in southwest Baltimore in an effort to extinguish the fire. It was nothing that the veteran firefighters from BCFD Engine 14 and other companies hadn’t done previously, too many times to count. However, today, the firefighters encountered a partial collapse of the interior of the structure which trapped all four of them. One firefighter, FF/EMT John McMaster was rescued by other crews and transported to University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center were he is listed in serious condition. Two others, FF/Paramedic Kelsey Sadler and FF/EMT Kenny Lacayo were then removed from the collapsed dwelling and also transported to UMSTC where, despite the absolute best medical care available anywhere in the country, they were pronounced deceased. Lieutenant Paul Butrim was removed from the remnants of the dwelling this afternoon after a monumental effort by BCFD Special Operations Team members and other BCFD personnel. He was also pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Officers and Members of the Fallston Volunteer Fire and Ambulance Company are keeping not only these four amazing firefighters , but also their families, friends, co-workers, and the entire BCFD in our thoughts, prayers, and memories today and during the difficult times ahead.
As is often the case in this tight knit world of the Fire and EMS service, this tragedy hits close to home for members of the FVFAC. Firefighter/Paramedic Kelsey (Norman) Sadler began her firefighting career as a member of the Fallston Volunteer Fire and Ambulance Co, and as a graduate of the Harford County High School Fire/EMS Cadet Program. Kelsey joined FVFAC in 2005 while attending The Fallston High School. In her senior year she enrolled in and successfully completed the High School Fire/EMS Cadet Program. She then joined the Baltimore City Fire Department and continued to build a very successful career stationed at Engine Company 14 on Hollins Street. Kelsey was known to be a very determined young woman, and a great Firefighter. She will be greatly missed by all.
Funeral arrangements for Lt. Kelsey Sadler can be found here….
Obituary for Lt. Kelsey Sadler
photo credit to Mike Hugg Media
