The pre-dawn blaze that destroyed a fire station in rural North Carolina on Monday started in the attic on the east side of the building.
The exact cause of the fire at Liberty Volunteer Fire Company has been listed as undetermined due to the amount of damage. However, investigators say it appears to have been accidental.
A neighbor went to check things out after hearing the station's alarm about 4:29 a.m. He called 9-1-1 after seeing flames.
"The first thing firefighters did when they arrived was get the trucks out while they still had power to raise the doors. They did get four of five out. But the tanker was in the bay near the bulk of the fire," said Frank Thomason, Rowan County Emergency Services Director.
The 1987 Ford tanker sustained extensive damage.
Firefighters were inside their station battling the flames when the sirens on engines wailed, signaling them to evacuate.
"As one ran to the exit, he realized the roof was collapsing. Knowing he wouldn't make it, he dove into the corner of the bay. It was a good move on his part. He ended up in a small void."
Fellow personnel pulled him through a hole in the wall. "He was very fortunate..."
He was transported to a local hospital. After a checkup, he returned to the fire scene, Thomason said.
Fire marshals as well as VFIS investigators were involved in the probe. "The VFIS president was in North Carolina yesterday, and came to the scene. I thought that was nice."
The insurance company is working with fire officials as they explore various options including erecting a temporary structure. The station destroyed is located in the northeastern section of the 32-mile district.
"Right now, all the trucks are at the main station located in the southeastern area."
Thomason said firefighters are pulling together, and are thankful that one of their own dove in the right spot.
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