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Central Islip FD-Fatal house fire on Sycamore Street

January 24, 2013, 0512 hours. The Central Islip Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 23 Sycamore Street. Chief of Department Ed Freudenberg was first on scene reporting a fully involved vacant and unsecured structure with a report of an occupant within. In addition to Chief Freudenberg 1st Assistant Chief Kevin McAteer, 2nd Assistant Chief Bob McGee and 3rd Assistant Chief Larry Parada were also on scene. Conditions were difficult due to temperatures ranging between 5 and 10 degrees above zero for the 56 CIFD members who responded on a total of 7 vehicles.

CIFD Engine 373 was the first pumper to arrive and stretched two hand lines. Crews began an active search of the residence and located one male victim in the basement area who was later declared deceased. The heavy fire condition was brought under control after a prolonged attack due to the spread of the fire through all floors.

Vertical and horizontal ventilation was employed to alleviate the intense smoke and heat and extensive overhaul was necessary throughout. Mutual aid was provided by the Hauppauge FD (engine to the scene) the Islip Terrace FD (engine to the scene) and by the East Brentwood FD (engine to stand by at CIFD HQ). The Central Islip Hauppauge Volunteer Ambulance responded but no injuries to personnel were reported. The Suffolk County Police Department Arson and Homicide Squads were requested and they remained on scene at the conclusion of the alarm to conduct an investigation along with Islip Town Fire Marshals Office. Chief Freudenberg released all units and crews from duty at 0758 hours.

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