A collapse at a plumbing business fire Tuesday night claimed an assistant chief in Indiana.
New Carlisle Asst. Chief Jamie Middlebrook, 41, and another firefighter were inside setting up equipment when the roof collapse occurred.
"'It is with terrible grief that we confirm the loss of one of our brotherhood. Assistant Chief Jamie Middlebrook lost his life last night. Please remember our department family, as well as his wife, mother and father. RIP Brother," officials announced on the department's Facebook page.
Middlebrook's father was among the firefighters battling the blaze.
Two large explosions also were reported at K-Fex, a septic pumping business in LaPorte County, WNDU reported.
One of the major issues crews faced was accessing a reliable water supply. There were no fire hydrants at the scene and water was being transported in large tankers, before the fire was finally brought under control Wednesday morning.
Firefighters had to remove vehicles from the building to recover Middlebrook's body. It was draped with an American flag.
