Firehouse Blaze Injures 5 Firefighters, Damages Fire Trucks In Walden

MONTGOMERY, NY — An overnight fire at a firehouse is under investigation.

The early morning fire at the Coldenham Firehouse, in the Town of Montgomery, caused significant damage to the building and several firefighting vehicles inside, and five firefighters were hurt during the response, according to an update from the Orange County Department of Emergency Services and the Coldenham Fire District.

Orange County 911 received a report of an automatic alarm triggered at the firehouse at about 3:14 a.m. When responders arrived, they found a fully involved fire in the garage bays of the building. Several firefighters tried to salvage some of the apparatus so it could still be used to help extinguish the blaze.

The fire damaged the firehouse and several pieces of firefighting apparatus housed there. Firefighters from neighboring departments responded and worked together to bring the fire under control while also protecting nearby properties that were at risk.

During firefighting operations, five firefighters suffered smoke inhalation and minor injuries. They were taken to Garnet Health Medical Center and Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital for evaluation and treatment. All five have since been treated and released, according to the update.

Departments from across Orange County and nearby communities also responded to support the Coldenham Fire District. The assistance included fire apparatus, equipment, and other resources so the district could continue operating, despite the damage at the firehouse. Mutual aid resources have also been put in place to maintain fire protection coverage throughout the district.

The Orange County Department of Emergency Services and the Coldenham Fire District expressed appreciation for the firefighters, EMS providers, law enforcement officers, and other emergency responders who worked at the scene. The update also said many nearby businesses and community organizations have been supportive of the district's volunteers.