Honoring The Heroes Lost In This Tragic Incident
Note: This story, originally reported in January 2022, is being republished.
Baltimore is in mourning after a devastating fire claimed the lives of three firefighters, with another still in critical condition, following a fierce blaze in a vacant house on Monday. This incident has been marked as one of the city’s deadliest.
The firefighters were battling a blaze inside a rowhouse in the New Southwest/Mount Clare area when the building partially collapsed. Lt. Paul Butrim, firefighter/paramedic Kelsey Sadler, and EMT/firefighter Kenny Lacayo were pronounced dead at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. EMT/firefighter John McMaster remains hospitalized. Collectively, these heroes had dedicated 44 years of service, making their loss even more profound.
Mayor Brandon Scott expressed the city’s deep gratitude, stating, “Baltimore owes them immense respect and thanks.” Fire Chief Niles Ford, visibly moved, referred to the fallen and injured as part of his family and pledged to honor their courage and sacrifice.
The tragic event occurred early Monday morning when firefighters were called to a vacant building, previously affected by a fire in 2015. The structure unexpectedly collapsed while they were inside, trapping them. One firefighter was rescued quickly, but it took an additional hour to save two others.
Dr. Thomas Scalea from Maryland Shock Trauma reported that Sadler and Lacayo suffered cardiac arrests at the scene, which could not be reversed. McMaster remains on life support, with his condition being closely monitored due to potential worsening.
Despite their brave efforts, the severity of the fire was overwhelming. Fire Chief Niles Ford explained that the decision to enter the vacant rowhouse was made to protect an adjacent occupied home, believing they could control the fire.
Lt. Paul Butrim, known for his heroism including a notable rescue of a child from a burning apartment in 2015, and Kenny Lacayo, recognized as an exceptional paramedic and responder, leave behind a significant legacy and a deep void among their peers.
This incident is rare for Baltimore, which had not faced a firefighter fatality since 2014. The tragedy highlights ongoing concerns about vacant properties, a persistent issue in a city with about 16,000 such homes. There are growing calls for reforms and preventive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As Baltimore grieves, the memory of these firefighters will endure, reminding the community of the sacrifices made by those who safeguard it. The incident underscores the challenges faced by firefighters and the urgent need for reforms to ensure their safety while addressing the risks associated with vacant properties.
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Sources: Firehouse