February 15, 1971. Fire reported shortly after midnight. Fire started in the master bedroom of a two story Colonial occupied by Rosemary and John Vastola and their three children. John Vastola was transported to the hospital with burns to the face and neck. Five year old Helen and two year old Carla were transported to the hospital for observation. Rosemary Vastola was not home at the time of the fire. Three year old Donna Vastola was found by firefighters deceased under a bed. John Vastola heroically rescued Helen and Carla and then returned to the house to find Donna. Despite his efforts, Mr. Vastola was driven back from the house by the fire. The fire was quickly extinguished by the fire department and was confined to the master bedroom. 70 firefighters responded with 5 pieces of apparatus. Suffolk Police later determined that the fire was caused by faulty wiring.
Article in -Smithtown News 2-18-1971.
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