Valley Park, MO, Blaze Produces Challenges for Firefighters

Feb. 28, 2024
With flames burning in the middle of the structure, Valley Park firefighters launched an exterior attack.

Firefighters from a dozen fire departments were battling a wind-swept blaze at a structure in Valley Park Wednesday morning. 

Valley Park First Protection District Assistant Chief Curtis VanGaasbeek told 5 On Your Side that crews responded at about 3 a.m. to the call for smoke.

VanGaasbeek explained that flames were burning in the middle of the building, making the structure unsound and forcing firefighters to fight the fire from the outside. 

Unknown materials inside were burning, creating a strong and unpleasant smell, but none of the materials were toxic, he said.

The fire was still burning at 7 a.m. as wind made fighting the flames a difficult task for firefighters.

About the Author

Firehouse.com News

Content curated and written by Firehouse editorial staff, including Susan Nicol, Steven Shaw, Peter Matthews, Ryan Baker and Rich Dzierwa.