News Release - August 13, 2010

RELEASE DATE: August 13, 2010

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Kopicko (313) 224-3758

DEPARTMENT CONTACT: Chief Katrina Butler (313) 596-2957

DETROIT FIREFIGHTERS CRITICALLY INJURED IN JEFFERSON/DICKERSON FIRE

In the early morning hours of August 13, at approximately 0527 the Detroit Fire Department responded and extinguished a box alarm fire, located at Jefferson and Dickerson. Shortly after 7 a.m., firefighters were dispatched to the same location for a rekindle. As the firefighters were entering the two-story building, a wall collapsed, trapping fire personnel.

There are three firefighters listed in critical condition: Fire Fighter Brian Baulch of E-41, 9 year veteran, 31 years of age; Fire Fighter Eric Jurmo of E-23, 11 year veteran, 42 years of age; Fire Fighter Brendan Milewksi of L-30, 11 year veteran, 31 years of age. One firefighter is listed in fair condition: Lieutenant Gerald Rutkowski of E-41, 23 year veteran, 46 years of age. Three firefighters were treated and released: Fire Fighter Jeron Whitehorn of L-14, 8 year veteran, 30 years of age; Fire Fighter Shayne Raxter of L-6, 9 year veteran, 37 years of age; and Lieutenant Robert Puckett of E-38, a 23 year veteran, 50 years of age.

The fire is still under investigation to determine its point of origin and probable cause. When Arson investigators complete their investigation, Executive Fire Commissioner James W. Mack Jr. will communicate their finding to the media.

For more information, please call Katrina Butler, Chief of Community Relations Division at (313) 596-2957.

PR-10-119