Just after 12:30 Tuesday afternoon, the Wilmington Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 800 block of N. Lombard Street. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered fire and smoke coming from the roof of a two-story row dwelling. As crews began firefighting operations, the intensity of the fire increased rapidly, forcing personnel on the roof to retreat to a neighboring rooftop. The fire quickly spread through the attic and roof of the initial house and extended to an adjoining house.
Given the severity and rapid spread of the fire, a second alarm was stuck to add additional manpower and equipment. This response mobilized all remaining on-duty Wilmington firefighters and several New Castle County Fire Departments. These departments also provided coverage for Wilmington fire stations while units were engaged on Lombard Street. The fire was brought under control in approximately 45 minutes.
The blaze caused significant damage to the roof and second floor of the primary dwelling and moderate damage to the roof of the adjacent house. One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was transported to Wilmington Hospital. No civilian injuries were reported. The Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office is currently investigating the cause and origin of the fire.
Approximately 75 fire and EMS personnel responded to the incident. The units that responded included: Engine 2, Engine 1, Engine 3, Squad 4, Engine 5, Engine 6; Ladder 1, Ladder 2; Battalion Chief 1, Battalion Chief 2, Battalion Chief 4; Deputy 2, F-1, and F-7. Assisting New Castle County Fire Companies included Five Points, Minquadale, Talleyville, Good Will, Wilmington Manor, Delaware City, Elsmere, Cranston Heights, Claymont, Brandywine Hundred, and Hockessin.