November 17, 1999
On this day, the Department was dispatched to a barn fire. Enroute to the call, Engine 27-1 was traveling down one of the many narrow roads in the rural parts of our coverage area. While on this road, the passenger side rear wheels of the engine slipped off the edge of the road.
The ensuing wild ride left the engine destroyed and all eight fire fighters injured. These injuries ranged from bumps and bruises to major life threatening damage. Two firemen were airlifted to an area trauma center because of the severity of their injuries. The most seriously injured of the eight remained on the critical list for almost three weeks before his condition was upgraded.
The Department is forever grateful that all members on the truck survived their injuries. This is in no small way a tribute to the professionalism and training of the surrounding emergency medical and fire service community. Had it not been for them, this story most certainly would have had a different ending.
FOLLOW-UP: As of March 2000, 6 of the 8 men have been returned to service. The remaining 2 men are in good spirits and participating in a rigorous physical therapy program. It is hoped that they too will be added to the list as "Returned to Service."
This picture shows the passenger side jump seat occupied by Lieut. Ray Brennan. He was ejected from the vehicle and pinned under it for almost 30 minutes until extricated by rescue personnel. The severity of his injuries required 31 days of hospital/rehab care. This area of the truck held an additional 5 firefighters who received numerous injuries.
The passenger side of the cab received the most severe damage during the accident. This "shotgun" position was occupied by Battalion Chief Harry J. McElhare, Jr. Though ejected and pinned under the truck with a severe injury to his right arm, he continued to be "the officer-in-charge" until the arrival of rescue personnel.
This rear view of Engine-27-1 shows how the damage to the truck extends completely to the rear of the apparatus.
This last photo of the accident shows the full extent of the damage done to the vehicle. Notice that rescue personnel are still on the scene.
RETURN to Sellersville Fire Department's History Page
Copyright 2000, Sellersville Fire Department. Last update: March 15, 2000.