Two Lorain homes were destroyed and a dog lost its life after a pair of fires broke out just hours apart on the morning of May 14, putting significant strain on the city’s fire crews.
According to Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Fenn, the first fire was reported around 8 a.m. at 3250 Dayton Avenue. The rear portion of the single-story home was already engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. Sixteen firefighters responded to the scene.
During firefighting efforts, one crew member suffered a serious ankle sprain and was transported by ambulance for treatment. A second firefighter sustained a back injury while moving equipment and was also evaluated.
The home was declared a total loss, with damage estimated at $95,000.
Crews had just returned to Central Station when the second call came in at approximately 10 a.m. for another structure fire at 2530 East 39th Street. Flames had started in the rear corner of the home, spreading quickly. Firefighters brought the blaze under control, but the damage was extensive.
That residence was also deemed a total loss, with estimated damages at $81,250.
While the occupants of both homes made it out safely, a dog was found inside the East 39th Street home in a crate. Despite attempts to resuscitate the animal, the dog died—likely from smoke inhalation.
“We tried to revive the dog,” said Fenn. “It didn’t make it.”
Demolition plans are underway for both homes.
Investigators have not yet determined the official cause of either fire, but both incidents are believed to be accidental. The fires occurred within a two-hour window, placing a heavy burden on the department’s resources.
No further injuries were reported.