An Orange County Fire Rescue lieutenant was hospitalized after receiving first and second degree burns during a fire that caused the roof of an Orlando church to collapse.
On Tuesday, August 22, while OCFR crews were returning to their headquarters after responding to a call, they encountered an active fire at The Center Arena Church (10 N Hiawassee Road).
Firefighters immediately initiated evacuation and began an interior search of the building to ensure that no occupants were inside.
During that search, and while crews were battling flames outside, the conditions of the fire rapidly deteriorated, which resulted in the roof collapsing.
A lieutenant was engulfed in the extreme heat and heavy smoke, which triggered a mayday call.
Nearby fire crews quickly responded to the distress signal and rescued the lieutenant from the structure. He was transported to the Orlando Regional Medical Center with first and second degree burns to his wrists and knees.
According to OCFR, the lieutenant is expected to be released from the hospital today.
“He is doing well and in good spirits, crediting his fellow firefighters and dispatchers for rapidly coming to his aid,” reads a statement from OCFR.
No additional injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the State Fire Marshal.