MA Chief: FF Saved by Fallen Colleague Still in ICU
By Brian Lee
Source Telegram & Gazette, Worcester, Mass.
WORCESTER, MA—The condition of the firefighter injured in the blaze that claimed the life of Lt. Jason Menard is improving, Chief Michael Lavoie said Thursday morning.
"He's still in ICU," the chief said of the firefighter, who suffered second- and third-degree burns. He is not being publicly identified. "He's stable. He's got some pretty severe injuries. He's definitely doing better, but it's going to be a long road."
Meantime, investigators were at the fire scene at 7 Stockholm St. Thursday morning.
There are still state Department of Fire Services special operations trucks—for support and rehabilitation on a frigid day— outside the burned-out home. Police tape surrounds the immediate area. Officers are escorting residents and pedestrians in and out of the area. News crews are camped out on adjacent Dybeck Street.
Menard, 39, based in the McKeon Road Fire Station, died in the blaze. Three other firefighters were brought to a hospital. Two were treated and released.
The investigation into the fire includes the possibility of a space heater and electrical unit in the home.
"They may be focusing on an area, but they're not ruling out any cause," Lavoie said. "Everything is still under investigation."
About Menard's tragic death and heroic efforts, Lavoie Thursday morning recalled hearing a story from his optometrist about the fallen firefighter prior to Menard joining the department in 2010.
"She knew Jason and said he's so excited to get on the Fire Department," the chief said. "She said it was his dream."
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