July 4, 2012

2:24 AM

Firefighters responded to a commercial fire at The Six Point Inn (6801 N. Columbia Way) in St Johns at 1:15 this morning. This was of particular concern because unlike most commercial fires, there are residences above. Crews from Station 22 (St Johns), Station 26 (Portsmouth),and Station 8 (Kenton) worked swiftly to evacuate the residents and isolate the fire. This was difficult because the bulk of the fire was in the walls, so firefighters had to open the structure not only from inside, but from the outside as well.

Members of Truck company 8 work with members from Truck company 22 and used chain saws to open the walls, allowing the Engine companies to attack the fire. This also allowed the smoke to ventilate to the outside allowing the interior crews to search for extensions.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and no one was injured. Updates to follow.

Response : 4 engines , 2 trucks , 2 chiefs, 1 ambulance